Islamabad (TDI): Mari Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL) deeply regrets to confirm the sad crash of a chartered MI-8 helicopter in North Waziristan earlier today.
The helicopter carried 14 passengers including three foreign pilots, and was en route to Shewa (Waziristan Block) as part of personnel transportation services for MPCL’s operation in the region.
As per Russian Embassy, 8 Russians citizens who were working on some petroleum field were also on board and their Russian Embassy is waiting to know about their whereabouts.
According to reports, the helicopter experienced an engine failure mid-flight. It managed an emergency landing, the helicopter tragically lost control after touching the ground.
Six passengers have been reported dead and eight have critical injuries.
The company is working closely with authorities to assure that a full investigation is carried out to determine the technical issues of the engine failure.
MPCL stresses that there is no connection between the incident and security-related or terrorism concerns in the area. The crash was solely due to technical issues.
Rescue Operations Underway
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MPCL with the Pakistan Army and other emergency response teams launched a comprehensive evacuation and rescue operation.
The injured passengers are being transported to the nearest hospital. They received urgent treatment.
The Pakistan Army’s quick response has played a major role in ensuring emergency that the injured are attended to as soon as possible.
MPCL extends its condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives. MPCL is fully committed to supporting the victims’ families.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the technical failure that led to the crash is under investigation. MPCL is cooperating with relevant aviation and safety authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry.
The company assured that every effort will be made to ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future.
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In the meantime, MPCL focused on supporting those affected by the incident. Further updates regarding the investigation and the condition of the injured will be shared as more information becomes available.
