Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of Government Communications has stepped forward to refute allegations made by Rev. Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South.
Fordjour had linked two aircraft that landed in Ghana to illicit activities, including drug trafficking and money laundering.
However, Kwakye Ofosu has provided a detailed explanation, shedding light on the legitimate purposes behind these flights.
The Antonov 12 VK: A Legitimate Technical Stop
The Minister explained that the first aircraft, an Antonov 12 VK with registration number CVK 7037, arrived in Ghana on March 12, 2025, after obtaining a landing permit (GAF/TMAO/25/7863). The cargo plane, which originated from Rwanda and Angola, was carrying oil-drilling equipment and lubricants destined for the European Union market. Ghana served as a critical stop for the aircraft to undergo RA3 scanning and screening—a certification necessary for entering the EU, which Rwanda lacks. The Swiss cargo facility at Kotoka International Airport is certified to perform this inspection.
However, the aircraft’s stay was extended due to mechanical issues. It developed an engine blade fault and suffered severe oil leakage, necessitating the use of a replacement aircraft (URCEZ, registration number CDK 7007) to evacuate the cargo. The damaged aircraft remained at Kotoka International Airport from March 12 to March 25, 2025.
Throughout its stay, the aircraft was thoroughly inspected by Aviation Security, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, and the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).
Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that “no contraband or illegal substances were found” during these inspections.
The Hawker 800XP: A Technical Stop for Repairs
Again, the minister emphasized that the second aircraft, a Hawker 800XP with registration number N823AM, was operated by AirMed International, a U.S.-based air ambulance service.
The aircraft, handled in Ghana by Tropicana Airlines, arrived from Gran Canaria, Spain, after passing through Rwanda and Angola. Its purpose for landing in Ghana on March 20, 2025, was a technical stop for refueling and crew rest.
However, upon landing, the aircraft suffered a tire burst and issues with its landing gear, requiring servicing before it could take off again. On March 22, 2025, another aircraft (registration number N864) arrived with replacement tires and flight engineers from Rwanda. The necessary repairs were made, and the aircraft departed Ghana on March 25, 2025.
Like the first aircraft, the Hawker 800XP was subjected to rigorous security inspections by NACOC, National Security, Aviation Security, and the NIB. Again, no illegal substances were discovered.
Kwakye Ofosu slammed Ntim Fordjour for spreading falsehoods, accusing him of attempting to undermine public confidence in the government.
“The facts are clear. Both aircraft had legitimate reasons for being in Ghana. They were thoroughly inspected, and no unlawful substances were found. Reverend Ntim Fordjour cannot prove his allegations, which is why he is now refusing to cooperate with investigative bodies,” he stated.
By: Kwadwo Owusu
