The Indian Air Force has issued an official statement regarding the crash of an An-32 aircraft in Jorhat, Assam, which occurred at approximately 1000 hours during a routine sortie. The tragic incident resulted in the loss of five personnel, whose identities have been confirmed by the IAF.
Victims Identified
The deceased have been named as Squadron Leader Prashant Singh, Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar, Sergeant Jitendra Sharma, Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat, and Agniveervayu Danish Alam. The IAF expressed deep regret over the loss and extended its condolences to the bereaved families.
Investigation Underway
In a statement posted on X, the IAF said, "An IAF An-32 aircraft met with an accident during a routine sortie today at approximately 1000h at Jorhat, Assam. Crash site management and initial enquiries are on at this time. IAF requests everyone to refrain from speculation till preliminary results are not in." The force further added, "IAF deeply regrets the loss of lives and stands firmly with the bereaved families in this time of grief. IAF will share more details as they are in."
Efforts at Crash Site
The Air Force confirmed that efforts at the crash site are continuing while investigators work to establish the circumstances that led to the accident. The IAF urged restraint in public discourse until more facts emerge, reiterating, "IAF requests everyone to refrain from speculation till preliminary results are not in."
Defence Minister Expresses Condolences
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his condolences to the families of the martyrs. In a post on X, he wrote, "Deeply anguished by the loss of five Air Warriors in the An-32 accident at Jorhat, Assam. Sqn Ldr Prashant Singh, Flt Lt Shubham Kumar, Sgt Jitendra Sharma, Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat and Agniveervayu Danish Alam made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Their courage and service to the nation will always be remembered with pride and gratitude. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The nation stands firmly with them in this hour of grief."
The IAF stated that further details regarding the accident will be shared as they become available.
