Five dead as KP govt helicopter crashes during flood rescue operation

A Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government helicopter engaged in flood relief efforts crashed in Mohmand's Pandiali area on Friday, killing all five people on board.

According to reports, the Mi-17 helicopter was delivering relief supplies to victims of heavy rains and flooding in Bajaur when it went down due to bad weather.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur confirmed that the dead included two pilots and three crew members. He said the helicopter was part of ongoing rescue operations after cloudbursts triggered flooding in several districts.

The chief minister had earlier ordered the use of all available resources, including helicopters, to assist affected areas, and directed the Commissioners of Malakand and Deputy Commissioner of Bajaur to personally oversee operations.

He also instructed district administrations, especially in Dir and Swat,to remain on high alert.