Pakistani Helicopter Delivering Flood Relief Crashes in Bajaur, Killing Five Crew Members

Peshawar — A Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government MI-17 helicopter carrying emergency relief supplies to flood-stricken Bajaur crashed on Thursday, leaving five crew members dead, including two experienced pilots. Officials have attributed the tragedy to severe weather conditions in the region.

KP government spokesperson Faraz Mughal confirmed the crash, saying the aircraft was on a humanitarian mission to Salarzai Tehsil’s Jabrarai area, one of the worst-hit locations in the province following days of heavy rains, cloudbursts, and flash floods.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur stated that the two pilots and three crew members were martyred in the incident. He announced a day of mourning across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the national flag to be flown at half-mast on Friday in honor of the victims.

Paying tribute to the fallen crew, CM Gandapur described them as “true heroes” who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty:

“Their selflessness will be remembered in golden letters in the history of this province. We pray for their elevated ranks and for strength to their families in this time of grief.”

The provincial government confirmed that the victims will be laid to rest with full state honors, and their families will receive official support.

According to rescue officials, the Jabrarai area suffered significant damage overnight as flash floods destroyed homes, washed away roads and bridges, and cut off several communities.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar said the party’s focus remains on search and rescue operations in Bajaur and neighboring Buner district, urging all provincial lawmakers, ministers, and administrators to remain in the affected areas until relief work is completed.

Authorities have also urged residents to take precautions, warning that heavy rainfall and unstable terrain continue to pose serious risks to both rescue teams and civilians.

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