SLAF Bell 212 crash: Five armed forces personnel dead

Five armed forces personnel have died after a Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Bell 212 helicopter crashed into the Maduru Oya Reservoir during a training demonstration on today morning (May 9).

The aircraft was carrying 12 individuals, including two pilots, when it went down during a display held as part of a passing-out ceremony. All personnel on board were rescued and admitted to hospital, but five were later pronounced dead. The deceased include three Special Forces members and two SLAF helicopter gunmen.

According to the SLAF spokesperson, both pilots were able to eject safely before the crash and were rescued.

The helicopter had departed from the Hingurakgoda Air Force Base before encountering difficulties. The SLAF has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.