Mari Petroleum helicopter crashes in North Waziristan, 6 people killed

In a tragic incident, a chartered helicopter belonging to Mari Petroleum Company crashed near the Shiv oil field in North Waziristan. The Mi-8 helicopter was carrying a total of 17 people, including three foreign Russian pilots and 14 passengers. The crash resulted in the loss of six lives, while eight others sustained injuries. Initial reports suggest the crash was caused by a technical fault during takeoff, and an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Details of the Crash

The helicopter crash occurred in the region of North Waziristan, near the Shiv oil field, a significant location for Mari Petroleum operations. The Mi-8 helicopter, a popular model for civilian and military use, was in the process of taking off when the accident took place.

According to sources, the helicopter experienced a technical fault just moments after takeoff. Despite attempts by the pilots to manage an emergency landing, the helicopter’s tail rotor struck the ground, causing it to crash.

There were no immediate signs of sabotage or foul play, with initial investigations pointing to an engine failure as the primary cause. The helicopter was on a routine mission and had been chartered to transport passengers and crew.

Victims and Injuries

The helicopter was carrying 17 people at the time of the crash, including three Russian pilots and 14 passengers. Tragically, six individuals were killed in the accident, including members of the crew. Eight passengers sustained injuries and were immediately evacuated to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Thal for treatment.

Rescue efforts were swift, with helicopters being used to airlift the injured from the crash site to Thal. The names of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.

Possible Causes of the Crash

Initial reports indicate that the helicopter crash was caused by an engine failure during takeoff. While the exact nature of the technical fault is yet to be confirmed, investigators have ruled out any signs of sabotage. The Mi-8 helicopter is known for its reliability, but like all aircraft, it is susceptible to mechanical failures.

The helicopter's tail rotor reportedly struck the ground as the pilots attempted an emergency landing, which led to the crash. A detailed investigation is now underway to analyze the cause of the engine failure and any other potential contributing factors.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

Rescue operations were initiated immediately after the crash. Emergency personnel and rescue teams were dispatched to the site, where they found six people dead and eight others injured. The injured were quickly transported to CMH Thal for medical treatment, and from there, they are being transferred by helicopter to more specialized medical facilities if required.

Mari Petroleum, along with local authorities, is cooperating fully in the recovery efforts and the ongoing investigation into the accident. A thorough examination of the helicopter wreckage will provide more insights into the exact technical issues that led to the crash.

Conclusion

The tragic helicopter crash in North Waziristan has resulted in the loss of six lives and left eight others injured. The incident has cast a shadow over Mari Petroleum’s operations, with the focus now on providing support to the victims' families and ensuring the injured receive the best possible care. While the exact cause of the accident is still under investigation, initial findings suggest that a technical fault in the helicopter’s engine led to the crash. Authorities are working to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.

FAQs

Q: Where did the helicopter crash occur?

A: The helicopter crashed near the Shiv oil field in North Waziristan, Pakistan.

Q: How many people were on board the helicopter?

A: The Mi-8 helicopter was carrying 17 people, including three Russian pilots and 14 passengers.

Q: What caused the crash?

A: Initial reports suggest the crash was caused by a technical fault, likely an engine failure. There is no evidence of sabotage.

Q: How many people died in the accident?

A: Six people lost their lives in the crash, and eight others were injured.

Q: Where were the injured taken for treatment?

A: The injured were evacuated to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Thal for immediate treatment.