ACCRA (GHANA): A tragic helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region of southern Ghana has claimed the lives of eight individuals, including Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
According to government spokesperson Julius Debrah, the Z9 military helicopter departed from Accra at 9:12 AM on Wednesday, en route to Obuasi where the officials were scheduled to attend an official ceremony. Shortly after takeoff, communication with the helicopter was lost.
Later in the day, the wreckage was discovered in the Adansi Akrofuom district. Reports confirm the aircraft was completely destroyed and there were no survivors.
President John Mahama declared the incident a “national tragedy”, ordering all government activities suspended and flags flown at half-mast across the country.
In a national address, President Mahama extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, stating, “These individuals died in the line of duty, serving our beloved nation.”
The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that a search operation was launched immediately after losing contact with the aircraft.
While the cause of the crash has yet to be officially determined, investigators are currently exploring all possibilities, including mechanical failure, adverse weather conditions, and human error.
President Mahama has assured the public of a full and transparent investigation into the incident, vowing that “the mission of those who died will not remain unfinished.”
