The Nigerian Air Force has moved swiftly to dispel rumors surrounding an incident in Tami village, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, clarifying that it was a Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), not a helicopter, that was involved.
In a statement issued on Monday, NAF spokesperson Edward Gabkwet stated, “Contrary to earlier reports, a NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle experienced a mishap shortly after take-off for a mission near Rumji Village, approximately 15 kilometers from the Base. Being unmanned, there were no casualties either onboard or on the ground.”
Gabkwet further assured the public, saying, “A preliminary investigation has already commenced to determine the cause of the mishap. We want to assure Nigerians that this incident will not hinder any ongoing operations.”
The clarification was necessary as initial reports had erroneously identified the aircraft involved as a helicopter, prompting the NAF to clarify the type of vehicle and assure the public of minimal impact from the incident.
Following the incident, a response team comprising personnel from the Nigerian Air Force Air Training Centre and 401 Flying School swiftly secured the scene at Tami village. Their efforts were aimed at facilitating emergency rescue operations and conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
Earlier reports from local residents had mistakenly identified the aircraft involved as a helicopter belonging to the NAF. According to these reports, the helicopter, conducting a routine operational flight, encountered technical difficulties leading to the crash. This sparked alarm among residents in the early hours of Monday.
Fortunately, the pilot successfully executed emergency protocols and emerged from the wreckage largely unscathed.
