Court orders probe into Lunuwila helicopter crash

A comprehensive investigation into the crash of a Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Bell 212 helicopter into the Gin Oya in the Wennappuwa police division has been ordered. 

The Marawila Magistrate, Dinindu Samarasinghe, directed the Wennappuwa Police Headquarters to conduct a full probe and submit a report to the court by the December 08. 

The helicopter was carrying out aerial relief operations for those affected by the severe weather.

Following the crash, the Magistrate ordered the Specialist Judicial Medical Officer at the Negombo General Hospital to conduct a post-mortem examination on the body of the Chief Pilot, Wing Commander Nirmal Siyambalapitiya (41), who was flying the aircraft, and hand the remains over to his family.

The Magistrate further instructed the Wennappuwa Police Headquarters to take necessary steps to present the evidence from the inquest into the death of Chief Pilot Wing Commander Nirmal Siyambalapitiya before the Marawila Magistrate's Court on December 08.

In addition, the Air Force Commander was also directed to conduct a separate investigation into the air mishap.

The Bell 212 helicopter belonging to the SLAF crashed into the Gin Oya in Wennappuwa, resulting in the death of the chief pilot and injuries to four others.