Nassau: Ten people, including the pilot, lost their lives in a plane crash in the Bahamas on Friday, coinciding with the nation's Independence Day celebrations. The unfortunate incident has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a jubilant occasion marking the 53rd anniversary of the Bahamas' independence from the United Kingdom.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the tragedy unfolded in the northern region of the Andros archipelago, the largest island group in the Bahamas positioned in the Atlantic Ocean, north of Cuba. Authorities have yet to determine the nationalities of the victims involved in the crash.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) reported that the aircraft involved was a Cessna 402, operated by the local airline Flamingo Air. It was on a routine flight from Nassau International Airport to San Andros International Airport when the disaster struck. The AAIB further stated that the plane encountered difficulties and crashed into trees before it could land safely.

Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis addressed the nation during a news conference, expressing sorrow over the tragic event. He remarked, "What was supposed to be a day of celebration has turned into a day of mourning." The government and local authorities are working closely to investigate the cause of the crash and provide support to the affected families during this challenging time.