Mayabunder | February 25, 2026
In a swift and coordinated rescue operation, personnel of the Police Marine Force (PMF), India Reserve Battalion (IRBn) and the Forest Department rescued all occupants of a Pawan Hans helicopter that made an emergency landing in the sea near Thota Tikrey Island, Mayabunder, on Tuesday morning.
The incident occurred at around 9:30 am. A Forest Department dinghy that was already in the area immediately rushed to the spot after noticing the helicopter in distress. The team on board included Head Constable K. Kartik Kumar (IRBn – Compounder) and Forest Department staff members Saw Sakari, Saw Manashe and Saw Thomas.
Braving challenging sea conditions, the team successfully rescued all passengers from the water and transported them safely to Mayabunder Jetty. Among them was an elderly woman who had fallen unconscious after ingesting a significant amount of seawater. Head Constable Kartik Kumar administered timely first aid at the spot, playing a crucial role in stabilising the rescued persons.
Meanwhile, the PMF team at Mayabunder also swung into action. Head Constable Ratan Jha and Head Constable M. Gopi, along with FRP No. 07, reached the location promptly and rescued the two pilots from the sea.
In a bid to ensure that no one remained trapped inside the submerged aircraft, PMF personnel undertook an underwater dive to thoroughly check the helicopter.
According to a press release issued by the North and Middle Andaman Police, the seamless coordination, fearless action and unwavering dedication exhibited by the Forest Department, PMF and IRBn personnel reflect the highest traditions of service. The release described their prompt life-saving response as a shining example of duty beyond the call.
