A military helicopter crash in Ghana’s Ashanti region killed eight, including two senior ministers, in one of the nation’s worst air disasters in over a decade. The tragedy struck on Wednesday, triggering national mourning. The Ghana Armed Forces began a swift investigation to pinpoint the cause.
Crash Details
A Z-9 helicopter, carrying five passengers and three crew, departed Accra at 09:12, bound for Obuasi, a gold-mining hub. It lost radar contact and crashed in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve near Sikaman, Adansi Akrofuom District. Rescue teams retrieved charred remains from the wreckage.
“The crash was a national tragedy,” said Julius Debrah, chief of staff to President John Mahama.
The government lowered flags to half-mast until further notice.
Victims of the Crash
The disaster claimed notable figures:
- Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister, a medical doctor and former deputy minister.
- Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Environment Minister, pivotal in combating illegal gold mining.
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
- Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman, National Democratic Congress (NDC).
- Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate, Obuasi East.
- Crew: Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Mourners gathered at Boamah’s home and NDC headquarters, mirroring the nation’s sorrow.
Investigation Launched
The Ghana Armed Forces launched a probe to uncover the crash’s cause.
“Investigations have commenced to determine the cause of the accident,” the Ghana Armed Forces stated.
Technical teams, aviation safety experts, and independent assessors will examine flight data, maintenance logs, and the crash site. Potential causes include mechanical failure, weather conditions, or procedural errors. Online footage showed burning debris in a forest, with locals attempting to help.
Background of the Incident
The Z-9 helicopter, used for transport and medical evacuation, was en route to a mining-related event in Obuasi, a region plagued by illegal gold mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey”. Minister Mohammed led efforts to curb this practice, which endangers Ghana’s cocoa production and water resources. The crash highlights persistent aviation safety concerns, following a 2014 helicopter crash that killed three and a 2012 cargo plane accident that claimed ten lives.
National Response and Future Steps
President John Mahama declared a period of mourning, halting all presidential activities. The investigation’s findings will shape efforts to bolster aviation safety and prevent future losses. Ghana grieves, focusing on supporting the victims’ families and seeking answers.
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