11 SOLDIERS DIE IN HELICOPTER CRASH NEAR KATLANOVO
National.
All 11 members of the Macedonian Army (ARM), who were being transported in Mi-17 helicopter that crashed in the vicinity of Blace (Katlanovo region), died in the accident. The transport helicopter "Mi-17" was coming back from the ALTHEA mission in Bosnia & Herzegovina. So far, there are no reports on what had caused the accident. All dead bodies have been found, whereas seven of them are already identified. The helicopter crashed 50 meters from the first village houses and there are no civilian casualties.
President Branko Crvenkovski, Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski and Interior Minister Gordana Jankulovska arrived at the site of the crash.
"It is a profound accident, great tragedy and tremendous loss. At this moment I've got nothing much to say except to express one deep and sincere condolence to the families and relatives of the killed soldiers. I know that there are no words to relieve their pain. However, if it is any consolation, we are all in this moment sharing their grief. All investigations into the reasons for the crash are being opened right now," said President Crvenkovski after visiting the site of the ARM helicopter crash.
Prime Minister Gruevski also extended condolences to the families and relatives of the killed soldiers.
"This is great tragedy. A damage or possibly explosion occurred, even though it is still unknown what exactly happened with the ARM helicopter that was in mission in BiH. I cannot reveal any details at the moment. I can only say that is is a profound tragedy. According to initial data, 11 passengers were on board when the helicopter took off from Bosnia. Up to now, seven bodies are identified. Sincere condolences to the families. This is truly a big tragedy," stated PM Gruevski.
The Government is holding an emergency session where ARM Chief of Staff Miroslav Stojanovski is expected to attend. The Skopje airport was closed for two hours due to the accident.
At the beginning of 2008, Macedonia reached a decision to reduce the military contingent in Althea mission and instead with two, like so far, to participate in the mission with one helicopter. The new rotation, which was approved by the Parliament in January, encompasses a total of 13 ARM soldiers.
MD: What a tragedy, may they rest in peace
[Mia]
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