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Final Mayday: Inside The Catastrophic Air India Flight That Killed 279

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6 months ago

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Final Mayday: Inside The Catastrophic Air India Flight That Killed 279

The city of Ahmedabad, India, is reeling from an unimaginable tragedy that unfolded in broad daylight. A devastating plane crash involving an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner has now claimed 279 lives, making it one of the worst aviation disasters in modern history.

A Sudden Plunge Into Chaos

On what began as an ordinary Thursday afternoon, Flight AI182 took off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, bound for London Gatwick. Moments after liftoff, the aircraft struggled to gain altitude, reaching just over 100 meters before issuing a distress signal. Within seconds, the plane nosedived and crashed into a densely populated residential area near the airport.

What followed was a scene of horror: flames engulfed homes, the air filled with acrid smoke, and rescue workers scrambled desperately amid rubble and twisted metal to locate survivors.

The Rising Toll: Devastation Beyond the Sky

While initial reports on Friday cited 265 fatalities, authorities have now confirmed 279 deaths, including 38 individuals on the ground. These figures were released by a senior police officer in Ahmedabad, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case.

Among the 242 individuals on board were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, seven Portuguese, one Canadian, and 12 crew members. Tragically, only one person survived the catastrophic crash.

A Community Shattered

This disaster did not end with those aboard the flight. Families in the surrounding neighborhood also suffered immeasurable losses. Residential buildings were reduced to rubble, homes burned to ashes, and survivors are left grieving and displaced.

Authorities are now undergoing the painstaking process of DNA identification to confirm the identities of the deceased. Until then, the casualty count remains provisional, but the emotional toll on families is already beyond measure.

Questions Mount as Investigation Begins

Aviation investigators quickly recovered one of the aircraft’s black box recorders on Friday, which is expected to provide crucial insight into the final moments of the doomed flight. Forensic teams are still searching for the second recorder.

The cause of the crash remains unknown, but early indications suggest a critical failure shortly after takeoff. Given that this incident marks the first recorded crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, global attention has turned sharply toward both the airline and the manufacturer.

Boeing, the U.S.-based aircraft maker, has released a statement expressing sympathy and offering support to Air India. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident and are committed to assisting authorities in any way we can,” a spokesperson said.

Air India Under Scrutiny

As the national carrier of India, Air India faces intense public and governmental scrutiny. Critics are already calling for a deeper audit into the airline’s maintenance protocols, pilot training standards, and safety checks. With a fleet that includes several Dreamliners, the implications could reverberate across its international operations.

A Moment of Reckoning for Global Aviation

This crash serves as a stark reminder that while air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation, lapses—however small—can result in catastrophic outcomes. For Boeing, this incident could raise fresh concerns over aircraft reliability. For airlines around the world, it’s a wake-up call to review safety procedures with renewed urgency.

In Memory, and In Search of Answers

As India mourns, and the world watches, the search for answers intensifies. Families deserve closure. Aviation professionals demand clarity. And an industry must reflect deeply on what went wrong.

The skies may seem quieter in Ahmedabad today, but the echoes of this tragedy will be felt for years to come.

Note: This story is still developing. Updates will follow as more information becomes available from investigators and officials.

 

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Crime

Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Fresh Wave Of Insecurity: Pregnant Woman And Several Residents Abducted In Niger And FCT

Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges as multiple communities in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) experienced coordinated attacks this week. These incidents come just days after the abduction of students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State……CONTINUE READING

New Abduction in Niger State

Residents of Palaita community in Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area were thrown into distress on Wednesday when armed groups invaded a rice farm and abducted several workers, including a pregnant woman. Community sources estimated the number of kidnapped victims to be around 24, while the Niger State Police Command confirmed 10 abductions as investigations continue.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. while farmers were busy harvesting their crops. Despite the community’s close proximity to a military base in Erena, the attackers escaped before security personnel arrived.

In a separate incident in Kakuru community, also in Erena Ward, residents reported that a visually impaired man was assaulted after refusing to hand over a mobile phone. The victim was given first aid, though his current condition remains unclear.

Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the attacks, assuring that security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims and restore calm in the affected areas.

Fresh Abductions in the FCT

In Abuja, communities in the Bwari Area Council faced renewed tension following another night attack in Gidan-Bijimi, a settlement near the Kaduna boundary. Six young women and a 16-year-old boy were taken during the raid, according to residents.

The attack, which occurred around 9:47 p.m. on Wednesday, created panic among locals already concerned by previous incidents in the region. Local vigilance groups attempted to intervene but retreated due to limited resources.

As of Thursday morning, families reported that no contact had been made with the attackers, while police were still verifying the details.

Church Confirms Passing of Kaduna Cleric

The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, has announced the death of Venerable Edwin Achi, who was abducted in October along with his wife and daughter. His passing was described as a deep loss to the Diocese and the wider Christian community. The Church also announced the cancellation of the upcoming “Stand Up for Jesus 2025” event in his honour.

The Diocese assured that prayers continue for the safe return of his wife and daughter.

Federal Government Responds to Rising Insecurity

Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, reaffirmed that the Nigerian military is intensifying efforts to eliminate criminal networks responsible for attacks across the country. He explained that intermittent assaults are typical of guerrilla-style tactics but insisted that security forces are “working day and night” to restore normalcy.

He further confirmed that the Federal Government has launched a full investigation into recent school abductions, including claims that security personnel were withdrawn prior to an incident in Kebbi State.

Police Redeploy Over 11,000 Personnel

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, revealed that 11,566 police officers previously assigned to VIP protection have now been deployed to underserved communities to strengthen grassroots security.

He stated that the initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at improving community policing and ensuring fair distribution of manpower nationwide.

Cardinal Onaiyekan Calls for Better Equipment, Not More Personnel

Catholic Cardinal John Onaiyekan called on the Federal Government to prioritize properly equipping the officers already serving across the country rather than recruiting additional personnel. The Cardinal emphasized the need for immediate action, stressing that adequately supported police officers are capable of confronting insecurity.

Experts and Community Leaders Advocate Unity

Former Senator Shehu Sani and humanitarian organizations participating in the 9th International Conference on Love and Tolerance urged Nigerians to embrace unity, understanding, and dialogue. They highlighted the importance of addressing root causes of conflict, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting security agencies with the resources they need to protect communities.

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Crime

Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

Published

1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Dalung Breaks Silence: TikTok Chat With Bandit Exposes Deep Secrets Behind The Violence

Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, has opened up about a surprising and thought-provoking conversation he once had with a young man who claimed to be living in the bush as a bandit. Dalung shared the experience during an interview with News Central, explaining how the encounter gave him a deeper understanding of the issues fueling insecurity……CONTINUE READING

According to Dalung, he was browsing TikTok when he came across the young man, who openly described himself as someone living in the forest due to ongoing conflict. Curious, Dalung asked why they engaged in violent activities. The young man responded that they had suffered losses themselves and felt targeted by vigilante groups who, according to him, harmed their people and took their cattle. This, he said, pushed them into retaliation and led them deeper into the bush.

Dalung explained that he challenged the young man, pointing out that innocent people—including other Fulani individuals—were being harmed in the process. The young man replied that, from their viewpoint, only those living in the bush were considered part of their community, while anyone living in town was seen differently. It was a response that, according to Dalung, revealed how distorted perceptions can worsen the cycle of conflict.

Wanting to know if there was any path toward peace, Dalung asked what could help end the violence. The young man shared that they were open to negotiation and discussions that could encourage them to give up their weapons and reintegrate into society. Dalung noted that the confidence with which the young man spoke was unsettling, but it also showed that dialogue could be part of the solution.

Reflecting on the experience, Dalung urged the National Assembly to consider constitutional changes that would allow Nigerians the legal right to defend themselves responsibly, especially in areas affected by insecurity.

His conversation serves as a reminder of how complex the nation’s security challenges are—and how personal engagement, understanding, and strategic dialogue may help chart a way forward.

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Oyo State: Millions Lost As Fire Damages Two Residential Buildings In Ibadan And Kishi

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1 week ago

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November 28, 2025

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Oyo State: Millions Lost As Fire Damages Two Residential Buildings In Ibadan And Kishi

Oyo State

Two separate fire incidents have destroyed properties worth millions of naira in Oyo State, affecting residential buildings in both Ibadan and Kishi on Wednesday night…..CONTINUE READING

The first incident occurred at 17 Prestige Estate, Joop Bad Hour Crescent, Onirele, Ibadan, where the living room of a four-bedroom duplex was severely damaged. Although the fire consumed valuable household items, no injuries or loss of life were recorded.

In Kishi town, a second fire broke out at 1 Alhaji Rosco Street, Ajangba Area, where the generator room of another four-bedroom residence was engulfed. The blaze also affected property worth millions of naira before firefighters arrived.

Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Hon. Maroof Akinwande, confirmed both incidents on Friday. He praised the swift response of fire officers, noting that their timely intervention prevented the flames from spreading to other parts of the buildings.

According to Akinwande:

“When we arrived, the living room of the duplex was already on fire. Our officers launched a prompt and coordinated attack, preventing the fire from spreading further. No casualty was recorded, and properties worth millions were saved. The cause of the incident is still under investigation.”

He added that the Kishi incident was also contained quickly:

“Upon arrival, we discovered the generator room was completely engulfed. Our firemen acted immediately and stopped the fire from reaching the main building. It was fully extinguished in record time.”

The Oyo State Fire Service has urged residents to prioritize safety measures, maintain electrical and generator installations, and report emergencies promptly to reduce losses.

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