EAKING: Aircraft Crashes in Ondo Swamp, NAF Launches Search-and-Rescue Operation

EAKING: Aircraft Crashes in Ondo Swamp, NAF Launches Search-and-Rescue Operation

IGBOKODA, ONDO STATE — An aircraft has crashed in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with fears of casualties as emergency and security agencies intensify efforts to ascertain the fate of those on board.

The aircraft reportedly went down in a swampy area close to a Nigerian Navy facility in Igbokoda, leaving the wreckage badly damaged.

Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, confirmed the incident, saying military equipment was reportedly recovered from the crash site. He, however, said the identity of the aircraft and its operator had yet to be officially established.

The Ondo State Police Command also confirmed the crash and appealed to residents to remain calm while investigations and rescue efforts continue.

The command cautioned members of the public against circulating unverified reports, stressing that the number of persons aboard the aircraft and any fatalities had not been officially confirmed.

In a related development, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it had activated a search-and-rescue operation following an aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area.

According to the NAF, the aircraft, identified as an ATR-42, was reportedly conducting a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the incident occurred.

The Air Force said its search-and-rescue teams were working to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident and determine the status of those on board.

The NAF assured the public that further information would be made available as the operation progresses.

Authorities have urged residents to allow security and emergency agencies to carry out their duties and to rely only on officially verified information regarding the incident.