ISLAMABAD: A Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad on Wednesday shortly after take-off, killing all military personnel on board, according to a statement issued by the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military said the helicopter went down as a result of a technical fault during the take-off phase of the flight. The accident occurred in the vicinity of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, triggering an immediate emergency response.
According to the ISPR, there were no survivors among the personnel travelling in the aircraft. The military described the loss as a tragic incident and confirmed that all those on board lost their lives in the crash.
Rescue and recovery teams were dispatched to the site immediately after the accident was reported. Officials said emergency personnel reached the area promptly and began recovery operations as authorities worked to secure the crash location and assess the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Pakistan Army has ordered a board of inquiry to determine the precise cause of the crash. Investigators will examine the helicopter’s technical condition and other relevant factors to establish what led to the accident.
In its statement, the military leadership expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces, Syed Asim Munir, and all Ranks of Pakistan Army expressed deep grief over the tragic loss of precious lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
The armed forces described the martyred (deceased) as dedicated servicemen who lost their lives while performing their duties.
Further details regarding the identities of the victims and the findings of the inquiry are expected to be released after official investigations progress.
