The charred remains of all eight victims involved in Tuesday’s fatal military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region have been retrieved and placed in body bags, ready for transport to Kumasi.
The bodies, burnt beyond recognition, will undergo DNA testing to confirm their identities before being released to their respective families.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of prominent government officials, including Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
Crash Details
The crash occurred in a remote forest area near Adansi Akrofuom around 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 5. The military Z-9 helicopter, carrying eight passengers including high-ranking officials and aircrew was en route from Accra to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme.
According to preliminary reports, the aircraft lost contact with air traffic controllers shortly after takeoff.
Witnesses in nearby communities reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing smoke rising from the crash site.
Emergency responders arrived to find the wreckage engulfed in flames, with no survivors.
The deceased have been identified as Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence,
Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment and MP for Tamale Central,
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, pilot, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, co-pilot, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah and three crew members all soldiers.
National Mourning
President John Mahama has declared three days of national mourning, with flags to be flown at half-mast across the country. “This is a devastating loss for the nation. We mourn the passing of dedicated public servants and patriots,” the president said in a statement.
Tributes and Investigations
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum and civil society, hailing the contributions of the late ministers. Dr Omane Boamah was known for his calm leadership and dedication to public service, having previously served as Minister for Communications and presidential spokesperson. Dr Murtala Muhammed, a passionate environmental advocate, had just begun his new role championing sustainability and climate policy.
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, in collaboration with military aviation experts, has launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Early indications suggest mechanical failure may have played a role, though officials caution that conclusive findings will take time.
Next Steps
The bodies are being transported under military escort to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, where forensic experts are expected to conduct DNA identification.
Family members of the victims have been notified and are being supported by government crisis teams.
Further updates are expected from the Ministry of Defence and the Office of the President in the coming days as investigations continue and burial arrangements are considered.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
