NAF clarifies UAV mishap in Kaduna, denies helicopter crash

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has addressed reports about an air mishap involving one of its platforms in Kaduna State. Contrary to circulating reports on social media and traditional media, AVM Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for NAF, clarified that no helicopter crash occurred.

Instead, an NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) experienced a mishap shortly after take-off for a mission near Rumji Village, approximately 15 km from the base.

Gabkwet emphasized that, as it was an unmanned vehicle, there were no casualties on board or the ground.

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He assured that a preliminary investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident.

“Nigerians can rest assured that this minor setback will not, in any way, affect ongoing operations,” Gabkwet stated. He criticized the tendency of some media outlets to rush to publish unverified information, which led to misinformation about a helicopter crash. Gabkwet urged journalists to seek confirmation from authorized military personnel before releasing such news.