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Helicopter crashes into Lagos lagoon

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A helicopter this afternoon crashed into the Ocean, under the Third Mainland bridge, behind Oworonshoki Police Station, Lagos.

The aircraft marked 5NBGD belonging to Bristow Helicopters with 12 passengers was said to be coming from one of the oil rigs in Escravos area of Delta State and was said to be heading for Lagos Island when it went down around 3.p.m.

The incident stalled traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge.

According to reports, three of those on board were confirmed dead while four wounded ones were moved to the nearby Gbagada General Hospital.

The crash was said to have occurred at the back of Oworonsoki Police station after a loud bang was heard from the helicopter.

An eyewitness Adaora Moka said “I just saw a helicopter crash into the lagoon from 3rd Mainland Bridge. I hope the people survive. This thing is so devastating. The helicopter burst into flames when it crashed into the water. I don’t know if people will survive.”

First respondents, the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, its Lagos state counterparts, LASEMA, and policemen are said to have embarked on rescue operations.

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According to the Divisional Police Office, DPO, Oworonshoki, Chief Superintendent of Police, CSP Chijioke Nduka, who led officers to the scene to rescue victims, there was a loud sound from the aircraft before the crash.

He said more officers including the Area Commander, Ikeja Command, were at the scene assisting operatives of NEMA in the rescue operations.

To make rescue operations easier, routes to the site of the crash had been cordoned off hence gridlock on the Third Mainland Bridge.

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