A Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 212 helicopter engaged in humanitarian relief operations crash-landed into Gin Oya in Lunuwila yesterday (30), killing pilot Wing Commander Nirmal Siyambalapitiya and injuring four crew members.

The helicopter was delivering food and supplies to residents affected by ongoing floods and landslides when it went down.

Local residents rescued the crew, who were admitted to Marawila Hospital.

A nine-member committee, including senior Air Force officers, has been appointed to investigate the accident.