Gilgit: At least two pilots and three foreign passengers were killed, when an army helicopter crashed in Naltar area, according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
One MI-17 heli out of 3 carrying visitors had a crash landing at Naltar.Total 11 foreigners and 6 Pakistani passengers on board-1/3
— AsimBajwaISPR (@AsimBajwaISPR) May 8, 2015
According to Director General ISPR Major General Asim Saleem Bajwa, 13 survivors face varying degree of injuries. A total of 11 foreigners and 6 Pakistani passengers were on board.
Update Naltar:2 pilots,4 foreigners fatalities.(Ambs Philippine, Norway,wives of Malaysian& Indonesian Ambs).Injured-Polish&Dutch Ambs-5
— AsimBajwaISPR (@AsimBajwaISPR) May 8, 2015
The injured are being airlifted and shifted to the military hospital in Gilgit.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was scheduled to visit Giglit to attend an inauguration ceremony. Initial reports suggested that the helicopters were designated for prime minister’s security. Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has directed local administration and scouts of Gilgit, to take part in the rescue efforts. He said the injured should immediately be provided medical treatment.
This trip was going to be joined by members of 37 countries to improve diplomatic ties.
*This story will continue being updated as per developments.
