Search-and-rescue operation underway after ATR-42 aircraft disappears from radar en route from Benin to Lagos
The aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, was on a routine flight from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when contact was lost on Monday, October 5.
According to information released by Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo, air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13 a.m. Attempts to re-establish communication were unsuccessful.
The aircraft was subsequently located near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, with the wreckage reportedly lying in difficult swampy terrain.
Search and rescue underway
The Nigerian Air Force has commenced search-and-rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency-response agencies.
Keyamo said he had spoken with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and assured that the ministry would support the military and other agencies involved in the response.
The immediate priority, authorities said, is to reach the crash site and establish the condition of those aboard.
Casualty figures not yet confirmed
There were early fears of multiple casualties following reports of the crash, particularly because of the difficult swamp and creek terrain surrounding the site.
However, no official casualty figure or confirmation of fatalities has been released.
The Ondo State Police Command has appealed to members of the public to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information while emergency agencies continue their operations.
The crash has drawn significant attention because of the number of people aboard and the military status of the aircraft.
For now, the focus remains on the search-and-rescue operation and determining the fate of the 32 people aboard NGR 931.
TMN will continue to update this report as verified information emerges.