The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has launched a full investigation into the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in the Ashanti Region.
The crash, which took place in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve within the Adansi Akrofuom District, has resulted in the confirmed deaths of all eight individuals on board. Among the deceased are two high-ranking government officials: Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
In an official statement, the GAF reported that the Z-9 military helicopter took off from Accra at 9:12 a.m. en route to Obuasi. The aircraft went down near Sikaman, close to Adansi Akrofuom.
Rescue teams recovered the bodies of all those aboard, some of which were severely charred.
The GAF identified the crew members as:
• Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala
• Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
The passengers on board included:
• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
• Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
• Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and former Mayor of Kumasi
• Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East.
The Ghana Armed Forces extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed their commitment to uncovering the cause of the crash.
“A thorough investigation has commenced,” the statement said. A combined team of Air Force personnel, aviation safety experts, and independent investigators will assess the crash site, examine flight data, and review the aircraft’s maintenance history.
While the exact cause of the crash is yet to be determined, officials have assured the public that all possible factors including mechanical issues, weather conditions, and procedural matters will be closely examined.
