In a devastating incident early this morning, a Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Bell 212 helicopter crashed into the Maduru Oya reservoir, killing six people, including two air gunners and four Army Special Forces personnel, during a demonstration exercise for a military parade.
The Air Force confirmed that the helicopter, belonging to the No. 07 Flying Squadron stationed at Hingurakgoda Air Force Base, encountered an emergency situation and went down while flying a demonstration mission for the Army Special Forces Disbandment Parade.
The aircraft took off at 06:46 AM and was en route to the Maduru Oya Army Special Forces Base to transport six personnel for the scheduled demonstration. A total of 12 individuals were on board, including pilots, crew members, and Army personnel.
All onboard were initially rescued and admitted to Aralaganwila Hospital, then transferred to Polonnaruwa Base Hospital for further treatment. However, despite efforts, six lives were lost as a result of the crash.
In response, the Commander of the Air Force has ordered a nine-member Special Investigation Committee to thoroughly examine the cause of the accident.
The nation now mourns a tragic loss during what was meant to be a symbolic military ceremony, as the Air Force and Army unite in grief and search for answers.
