JAMMU: An Army officer from Jammu was among those killed in West Bengal helicopter crash.
Three army officers were killed on Wednesday after their five-seater Cheetah helicopter crashed while landing in West Bengal’s Sukna district.
“One of the occupants identified as Major Arvind Bazala of bordering Ranbir Singh Pura was a native of Ward Number 10 of R S Pura,” an official said. He said that the deceased was married one-year ago, adding that he is survived by his wife, and parents.
“His body will be shifted on Thursday to his native village where the last rites will be performed,” police said.
The accident occurred around 11.45 AM when the helicopter of the Sevoke Road Squadron of the Army Aviation Corps was attempting to land at Sukhna military cantonment’s helipad, officials said.
The other two officers killed have been identified as Major Sanjeev Lahar, a pilot and, Lt Col Rajneesh Kumar, who was a passenger. An enquiry has been ordered into the cause of the crash. Sources say the Cheetah helicopter was supposed to be replaced 8 to 10 years ago. But they were not replaced because of problems with the procurement process.
A Cheetah had reportedly crashed in March at Hoshiarpur but all crew and passengers had survived, with minor injuries.