Helicopter Wreckage Removed from Gin Oya (Video)

 The wreckage of the Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 212 helicopter that crashed in the Lunuvila area of Wennappuwa has now been removed from the site. A special investigation committee comprising nine members, including senior Air Force officers, has also been appointed to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into this air accident.

Amidst the widespread flood and landslide conditions affecting the island, the Air Force was actively contributing to extensive humanitarian operations carried out jointly by the tri-forces, police, fire brigades, and relief service teams. The helicopter crashed into the Gin Oya yesterday while it was engaged in distributing food and essential supplies to affected people near the Lunuvila bridge.

Although the pilots made strenuous efforts to safely land the aircraft when it experienced a technical malfunction, their attempt was unsuccessful, and the aircraft plunged into the water.

Immediately after the accident, local residents and relief teams promptly acted to rescue the officers on board and admit them to Marawila Hospital. However, the 41-year-old pilot, Wing Commander Nirmal Siyambalapitiya, tragically lost his life.

Wing Commander Siyambalapitiya, a skilled and experienced pilot, had recently completed his Master's degree in International Relations from the University of Colombo. Poignantly, he was also preparing to attend his graduation ceremony, which was scheduled for the day after the accident.
How the helicopter was removed video click here