Ghanaian authorities have launched a comprehensive interagency investigation into the military helicopter crash that killed eight individuals, including two senior cabinet ministers and top national security officials.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) confirmed Thursday it is working closely with the Armed Forces, national security agencies, and aviation regulators to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.
The incident claimed the lives of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, and Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation. The other victims include Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; and Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Also among the deceased were three members of the Ghana Air Force crew: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Speaking in an interview, GNFS Head of Public Relations Desmond Ackah said the agency is coordinating efforts with other state bodies to piece together what led to the crash of the Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter. The aircraft was en route to Obuasi when it reportedly lost contact with radar.
“These types of incidents require a multilayered response,” Mr. Ackah said. “While our immediate role involves rescue, extrication, and managing fire hazards, a broader investigation is underway to understand the factors behind the tragedy.”
Preliminary images and footage obtained by local media outlet Citi News showed the charred wreckage of the helicopter and remains of the victims, underscoring the severity of the crash. Emergency responders were quickly deployed to the crash site following reports of the aircraft's disappearance.
In a sign of the gravity of the incident, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who was attending an anti-illegal mining campaign event nearby, left the engagement upon hearing of the crash and visited the scene.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has ordered all national flags to fly at half-staff in mourning, as the government prepares for a state response to the high-profile loss.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing and have not ruled out any potential causes, including mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions. No timeline has been provided for when a final report may be issued.
