Several people are feared dead following the crash of an aircraft in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Monday.
The incident triggered panic in the riverine community as residents reportedly moved away from the crash area.
Initial reports described the aircraft as a suspected military helicopter. However, the Nigerian Air Force subsequently confirmed the crash of an ATR-42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area and said rescue operations had commenced.
The exact number of people aboard the aircraft and the number of casualties remained unclear in the latest reports.
NAF begins rescue operation
The Air Force’s confirmation shifted the description of the incident from early reports of a helicopter crash to an ATR-42 aircraft crash.
The circumstances surrounding the crash, including the aircraft’s operator, mission and cause of the incident, were still being established.
Local reports said the aircraft came down in or around a swampy or riverine area of Igbokoda.
Investigation expected
Aviation authorities and security agencies are expected to establish the circumstances that led to the crash and determine whether there were survivors.
Until an official casualty figure is released, reports that a specific number of people were killed should be treated with caution.
The incident comes as authorities continue efforts to reach the crash site and establish the condition of those who may have been aboard.