The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has sustained intensive recovery operations at the site of the crashed ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, at Igbokoda, Ondo State, as operations entered day 14 on Sunday.

In a statement on Monday, NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame said continuous pumping had significantly reduced the water level at the site, with the recovery team working to remove most of the remaining water, subject to prevailing conditions.

Mr Ejodame said reinforcement of the embankment with sandbags was ongoing to prevent collapse and maintain stability as de-watering continues.

He noted that the operation required sustained engineering and de-watering efforts under challenging conditions, underscoring the scale and complexity of the recovery mission.

Mr Ejodame said the Chief of Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, commended the dedication of all recovery personnel and partner agencies, with special appreciation to Hitech Construction Company for its invaluable support to the ongoing operation.

Mr Aneke also commended the recovery team for its resilience and professionalism, while reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to completing the operation safely and methodically and supporting the ongoing aircraft crash investigation.

He said the NAF remained deeply conscious of the pain and anguish of bereaved families and extended its heartfelt condolences.

(NAN)