Ethiopian airliner down in Africa

[PEI_3721]

A0283,
Simple answer, I don’t know.
I’m looking for photos - found (Aerospaceweb.org | Ask Us - Nacelle Vortex Generator), but as you describe this does not fit my experience with vortilons - underwing leading edge with sharp/ pointy bits protruding forward. Nor any experience with engine cowl / nacelle strikes, attachments, bent metal, etc (my ‘jet’ although using stall breakers and stick push, had no vortex generators or other aero adjustments at all - match that).

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vortilon

Aerospaceweb.org | Ask Us - Wing Vortex Devices

Takwis -I doubt your explanation; see photo above