By Ade Oyeyemi
Several people are feared dead after a helicopter reportedly crashed in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident occurred on Monday, throwing the coastal community into panic as residents rushed to establish what had happened and whether anyone on board survived.
Details of the crash remained sketchy as of the time of filing this report, with the identity of the helicopter and the number of people aboard yet to be officially confirmed.
Reports said the helicopter went down around the Igbokoda area, although the exact circumstances leading to the crash were still unclear.
A report by the Independent stated that the aircraft crashed in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base in the community, citing preliminary information. The chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, was also reported to have confirmed the incident.
However, the number of casualties and the condition of those who may have survived could not immediately be established.
Residents were said to have gathered around the area following the incident, while efforts were reportedly being made to reach the crash site and ascertain the extent of the damage.
The Ondo State Police Command had yet to confirm details of the incident at the time of filing. Police spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, was reported to have said he was unaware of the crash but would make inquiries.
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Emergency and security agencies were expected to provide further information on the aircraft, those on board and the confirmed casualty figure as efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash continued.
More details are expected as authorities conclude their assessment of the scene.
