मेडिवैक नाइट मिशन के दौरान डूबे आईसीजी हेलीकॉप्टर की खोज और बचाव अभियान पूरा, पायलट और क्रू का समर्पण सराहनीय

Search and rescue operation of ICG helicopter that sank during Medivac night mission completed, dedication of pilot and crew commendable

The press release said that the search and rescue operation of the Indian Coast Guard ALH helicopter that sank in the sea during a Medivac night mission last month has been completed. The ICG helicopter that sank on September 2 had two pilots and two air crew divers and was on a Medivac (medical evacuation) mission to evacuate a critically injured crew member from the motor tanker Hari Leela. Pilot in command was Commandant Rakesh Kumar

Rana's body was recovered on October 10. The release said, Following the accident, the ICG conducted a massive search and rescue operation, during which one crew was rescued from the sea. In addition, the bodies of Commandant (JG) Vipin Babu and Karan Singh, Head Navik were recovered from the sea on September 3, 2024. The ICG along with the Indian Navy and other stakeholders continued relentless search efforts to locate the remaining crew, Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana, who was the Pilot in Command of the mission. As part of the sustained search efforts by ICG and Indian Navy ships in the area, more than 70 air sorties and 82 ship days involving multiple ships were undertaken to locate the missing pilot.

It is informed with great sorrow that the mortal remains of the brave soul have been recovered from the sea on 10 October 2024, about 55 km South West of Porbandar, the release said. The mortal remains will be cremated as per service traditions and honours. The release further said, Heartfelt salute to the three brave soldiers of the Indian Coast Guard who laid down their lives in the line of duty.