A Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Bell 212 helicopter met with an accident and crashed into the Gin Oya today while engaged in disaster relief operations.

Police confirmed that the pilot of the aircraft passed away while receiving medical treatment following the crash.

The helicopter had been deployed for relief activities in the Wennappuwa–Lunuwila area when the incident occurred.

According to initial reports, five airmen were on board at the time of the accident. While two individuals were rescued from the crash site, a search-and-rescue operation is currently underway to locate the remaining crew members.