Police Debunk Helicopter Crash Story; Say It Was Controlled Landing

Nigeria Police Force has denied  Media reports  on Thursday to the effect that one of its Helicopters crashed in Bauchi after it took off from Abuja. 

In a statement by Force Spokesperson, CP Frank Mba, the  Police said the Helicopter, Bell 429 5NMDA, flying from Abuja to Bauchi on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, was involved in a controlled safe landing at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi. 

“The aircraft did not crash as being reported in some sections of the media and none of the occupants sustained any injury whatsoever. 

“All six (6) on board, including the pilot and co-pilot, are in good condition.  

“Similarly, the aircraft, which was flown by one of the best Police Pilots, was professionally safe-landed with minor damage on the rear rotor as a result of obstacle at the landing spot. The incident occurred around 7:30PM (local time).

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc (+), NPM, fdc has commended the Police Air-Wing for their professionalism in safe-landing the aircraft and averting any serious air-mishap. He further noted that the Nigeria Police Air-wing – with a fleet of one fixed-wing aircraft, a citation jet and thirteen (13) helicopters – has got a strong history of air safety since its establishment in the year 1972.”

Media outlets on Thursday, reported the alleged crash and said those on board sustained injuries.