Helicopter Crash in North Waziristan Claims 6 Lives, 8 Injured

Initial investigations suggest that the helicopter experienced a technical fault shortly after takeoff, leading to an emergency landing attempt, during which the tail rotor struck the ground.

North Waziristan – A chartered MI-8 helicopter crashed in the Shiwa area of North Waziristan's Mir Ali sub-division, resulting in the tragic death of six individuals and severe injuries to eight others.

Sources confirmed that the helicopter was carrying officers from Mari Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL) along with three Russian pilots and a total of 14 passengers on board. Preliminary reports indicate that six passengers were killed, while eight sustained serious injuries.

The MPCL spokesperson clarified that the crash had no connection to the region’s security situation or any act of terrorism. The helicopter was providing private transportation services in the Shiwa block of Waziristan.

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Rescue operations are currently underway, led by the Pakistan Army and other authorities. The injured have been shifted to CMH Thall Hospital, with further evacuation of the critically injured being carried out via helicopter.

Initial investigations suggest that the helicopter experienced a technical fault shortly after takeoff, leading to an emergency landing attempt, during which the tail rotor struck the ground. An investigation into the incident has been launched.