Nigeria plane crash recovery hampered by swamp

Recovery teams are facing major difficulties in retrieving the victims of a Nigerian Air Force plane crash in Ondo State, after the aircraft plunged into a swampy area.

25 people confirmed dead

The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that 25 people were aboard the ATR-42 aircraft, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers. No survivors have been found following Monday’s crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

Wreckage submerged in water

The aircraft crashed into the Igbokoda creeks, where thick vegetation, murky water and difficult terrain are complicating recovery efforts. Officials said the wreckage plunged to the bottom of the river, making it difficult for divers to reach.

Divers struggle to reach aircraft

Local divers have been working alongside emergency teams to locate and recover the wreckage. Authorities said divers were able to identify parts of the aircraft but could not initially reach or remove the main wreckage from the water.

Heavy equipment deployed

Two amphibious excavators, known as swamp boogies, have been brought to the crash site to support the operation. Technical teams with specialised equipment are also assisting efforts to locate and lift the submerged aircraft.

Villagers join rescue efforts

Residents in the area rushed towards the crash site after witnessing the aircraft go down. Local fishermen and villagers used boats to assist rescuers, although the difficult terrain prevented them from reaching the aircraft easily.

One resident, Omotayo Orimisan, described seeing the aircraft lose its tail before touching the water and then plunging into the forest beyond the creek.

Search continues for victims

The recovery operation is continuing as authorities work to retrieve the victims and secure the wreckage. The status of the aircraft’s flight recorders has also remained an important part of the investigation into what caused the crash.

Investigation ordered

The aircraft was travelling from Benin City to Lagos on a routine mission when air traffic controllers lost contact with it. The wreckage was later located near a naval base in Igbokoda.

Three days of national mourning

President Bola Tinubu declared three days of national mourning following the crash and ordered an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disaster. The tragedy has prompted widespread mourning across Nigeria.