The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified that the recent crash in Kaduna involved one of its Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), not a helicopter.
According to NAF authorities, the crash, which occurred in Tami village, Igabi Local Government Area, did not result in any casualties as the UAV was unmanned.
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Earlier reports had suggested that a NAF helicopter crashed in the early hours of Monday, causing alarm among local residents.
An eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous, had reported that the incident happened around 5:00 am.
However, NAF spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet issued a statement to correct the misinformation and reassure the public.
The statement emphasized that ongoing operations would not be affected by this “minor setback.”
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The statement read, “Contrary to reports on social media and some traditional media outlets that a NAF helicopter had crashed in Kaduna earlier today, 1 July 2024, be informed that no helicopter crash occurred.
Instead, a NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) experienced a mishap after take-off for a mission, at a location near Rumji Village and about 15 Km from Base.”
Gabkwet confirmed that there were no casualties since it was an unmanned vehicle and stated that a preliminary investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident.
He assured Nigerians that this incident would not hinder NAF’s ongoing operations.
“Nigerians can rest assured that this minor setback will not, in any way, impinge on all ongoing operations,” the statement concluded.
