The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has described the death of Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala in the August 6 military helicopter crash as an “irreplaceable loss” to both the service and the nation. The tragic incident claimed the lives of seven others, including two cabinet ministers.
Speaking at the Night of Memories and Reflections on Saturday, August 9, Air Commodore Mathias Awuah delivered a tribute on behalf of the Chief Director of the Ministry of Defence, Suweibah Adam, commending the late officer’s exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication.
“His sudden departure is an irreplaceable loss to the Service and the Ghana Armed Forces as a whole. Commissioned into the Operations Branch on 17th October 2014, Squadron Leader Anala exercised exceptional skill, discipline, and dedication,” the tribute read.
“His professional achievements were underpinned by rigorous training both locally and abroad. Your duty is done, but your legacy endures forever.”
The fatal crash also claimed the lives of:
• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence
• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
• Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
• Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC
• Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, military officer
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, military officer
According to preliminary reports, the victims were travelling aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter bound for Obuasi when the aircraft went off radar in the Adansi Akrofuom District. The tragedy has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes from political leaders, the military, and the general public.
Samples of the victims’ remains were sent to South Africa for DNA analysis to ensure proper identification before final interment arrangements.
