Military helicopter crash in Pakistani Kashmir kills 22

At least 22 personnel died when a military helicopter crashed in Pakistani Kashmir, security sources confirmed Thursday. Funeral processions for the victims were held in the region's capital, Muzaffarabad.

Videos circulating from the crash site showed thick black smoke billowing behind buildings where the Mi-17 helicopter went down. The soldiers were honored with ceremonial funerals, their coffins draped in Pakistani flags and carried by members of the artillery unit stationed in Kashmir.

Pakistan's military stated Wednesday that the helicopter crashed due to a technical fault, resulting in the deaths of all on board. An inquiry has been initiated to determine the precise technical cause of the accident. The crash occurred amidst strict security measures in Kashmir, following recent clashes between security forces and supporters of a banned civil society group that resulted in at least 11 deaths on Sunday.