Taking off to examine a shipwreck off the northeast coast of Madagascar, Minister Gelle’s helicopter crashed into the ocean.
Gelle and a police officer managed to reach the shore at different times after the accident. Gelle was reported to be one of two survivors who swam ashore for about 12 hours.
Stating that he was cold but not injured, Gelle said, “My time to die has not yet come.” In a video shared on social media, Gelle, 57, is seen lying exhausted on a chaise lounge wearing a camouflage uniform.
USED THE SEAT OF THE HELICOPTER
Police chief Zafisambatra Ravoavy said Gelle used one of the helicopter’s seats to swim.
Serge Gelle, 57, was elected minister in August after 30 years as a policeman.