An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) belonging to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) crashed in the Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Monday. The crash occurred at Taimi village, near Rigachikun, close to the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force Air Training Centre, Mando.
Contrary to earlier reports, the Nigerian Air Force confirmed that the crashed aircraft was a UAV and not a helicopter. According to NAF spokesman Edward Gabkwet, the UAV experienced a mishap after take-off for a mission at a location near Rumji Village, about 15 Km from the base.
There were no casualties on board or on the ground, as the vehicle was unmanned. A preliminary investigation has commenced to determine the cause of the crash. The Nigerian Air Force has assured that this incident will not impact ongoing operations.
A team of Airforce personnel has secured the scene and is conducting emergency rescue operations and investigating the cause of the crash.