A SLAF Bell 212 helicopter, which had been engaged in the distribution of dry and fresh rations in the Lunuwila area, made an emergency landing this evening near the Lunuwila Bridge. Five Air Force personnel, including two pilots, were onboard at the time of the incident.

With the assistance of residents in the area, all injured personnel were promptly evacuated and transferred to Maravila Base Hospital for further medical treatment.

Under the directives of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, a board has been appointed and the investigation into the incident has been initiated.