10 have been killed in mid-air helicopter crash in Malaysia.
In a devastating incident at the Lumut naval base in Perak on Tuesday morning, two Malaysian Navy helicopters collided mid-air during preparations for the Navy Day parade, resulting in the tragic deaths of all 10 crew members on board.
Rehearsal Turns Fatal:
The collision occurred around 9:30am local time while the navy helicopters were engaged in a rehearsal for the upcoming Navy Day festivities, as reported by Al Jazeera.
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The helicopters involved were identified as a maritime operations helicopter and a Fennec military chopper.
Confirmation of Casualties:
Authorities from the Malaysian Navy have confirmed the deaths of all 10 crew members. The bodies have been transferred to the Lumut naval base military hospital for formal identification.
Shocking Video Footage:
Footage circulating on local media captured the chilling moment when one helicopter’s rotor clipped another, leading to the catastrophic crash of both aircraft.
Local police have verified the authenticity of this video.
Investigation Underway:
The Malaysian Navy has initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic collision.
Minister’s Statement:
Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin revealed that the helicopters were preparing for a parade commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Navy.
Minister Nordin expressed deep sorrow over the loss and confirmed that efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased crew members, all of whom were under the age of 40.
Condolences from the Prime Minister:
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families in a post on X, emphasizing that the nation mourns this heart-wrenching tragedy.
History of Helicopter Incidents:
As 10 killed in mid-air helicopter crash in Malaysia, this incident adds to Malaysia’s history of helicopter accidents, including a recent crash involving a Malaysian coast guard helicopter off Angsa Island, where two crew members were rescued.
Previous helicopter collisions in Malaysia claimed many lives in 2020 and 2016.
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