STATEMENT BY DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS: SA AIR FORCE HELICOPTER CRASHES AT THE RSA/LESOTHO BORDER

Date: Wednesday, 21 November 2007
Embargo: None

The Department of Defence confirms that a SA Air Force Oryx Helicopter was involved in an accident at the border between the Republic of South Africa and Lesotho at approximately 11h40am on Wednesday, 21 November 2007.

The helicopter was carrying 14 members of the SA Police Service (SAPS), 2 SA National Defence Force (SANDF) members and 3 SA Air Force helicopter crew.

A member of the SAPS died on the scene, Eight (8) SAPS members suffered serious injuries and seven (07) others suffered minor injuries. All injured members of the SANDF and the SAPS are being airlifted to Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein.

Further information on the accident will be announced as soon as all relevant facts have been gathered.

ENDS.

Issued by :
Department of Defence
Pretoria

Inquiries : Major Ronald Maseko
Telephone: (012) 355 6388
082 809 5702