A Chihuahua state police helicopter was struck by gunfire during an operation near Ojinaga on Saturday, reportedly injuring officers aboard the aircraft and prompting a large-scale search for those responsible.
The helicopter, operated by the Chihuahua Public Safety Secretariat, came under fire from the ground while officers were conducting patrols and tactical operations in the border region, according to local media reports.
The crew safely landed the damaged aircraft, protecting the personnel aboard. Reports varied on the number of injuries, although local news outlets reported that at least one officer was hurt.
The injured personnel were initially stabilized at the scene before another helicopter transported them to General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport in Chihuahua City. Ambulances then took them under heavy police escort to Hospital Ángeles for treatment.
State and local authorities established a security perimeter around the hospital as the officers arrived.
Following the attack, law enforcement agencies launched a search around Ojinaga and along nearby rural roads for the suspected gunmen. Authorities reportedly believe organized crime members operating in the border region were responsible.
The state Public Safety Secretariat increased its presence in eastern Chihuahua following the attack. Officials had not announced any arrests or released detailed information about the officers’ conditions as of Saturday afternoon.
Image Credit: Ojinaga Noticias
