Polis teliti laluan helikopter terlibat nahas di Sarawak

Polis Sarawak are expanding an investigation into a fatal incident involving a medical helicopter near STOLport Long Lellang in Ulu Baram, Sarawak. The BO-105 helicopter, carrying five people including four medical staff and a pilot, crashed on Tuesday, resulting in the loss of all lives onboard. Police Superintendent Mohamad Zainal Abdullah stated that the investigation is probing multiple locations, such as where the aircraft refueled and the path it took before the incident occurred.

The aim is to determine if there were any unusual factors that may aid the inquiry. So far, there is no evidence suggesting foul play, but all possibilities remain on the table to ensure a thorough investigation. At present, police have interviewed 19 witnesses and will reach out to additional individuals if required. They will also revisit the relevant locations to gather more detailed information about the event.

The investigation also covers the entire timeline of the flight, from the helicopter's departure from Miri to its final destination, including reviewing flight records and potential emergency calls. The technical investigation into the cause of the crash has been handed over to the Accident Investigation Bureau (BSKU), while the police will continue to assist in any way needed to complete the inquiry.

The duration of the investigation depends on the amount of additional information required and the locations that need to be revisited, but police will strive to conclude it as soon as possible. On Tuesday, the BO-105 helicopter, carrying five people, including the pilot, crashed near the Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL)port Long Lellang.

The victims included pilot Zainol Afiq Bee Sham, 30; medical officer Dr. Ainul Baraah Kamaruddin, 33; nursing assistant Alexson Adit Henry, 31; and two nurses, Debra Moset, 40, and Jessie Paya Jok, 44.