By Angela K.
Among those who perished were some of the nation’s most prominent leaders and military personnel: Dr.Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment; Alhaji Mohammed Muniru, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr.Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the ruling NDC; Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Anala; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The helicopter departed Kotoka International Airport in Accra at 9:12 a.m., heading to an event in the Obuasi area aimed at tackling illegal mining. Shortly after takeoff, it disappeared from radar before crashing, according to reports. When wreckage was discovered, investigators found that a post crash fire had completely destroyed the aircraft and incinerated all occupants beyond recognition.
The remains of the victims were flown to Accra, with DNA samples sent to South Africa for further identification. Burial plans, including those for Muslim victims scheduled for 7 August, were postponed pending confirmation of identities.
The Ghana Armed Forces launched an investigation into the crash, working alongside the Ghana National Fire Service and other security agencies. The helicopter’s flight recorder was recovered the following day and is expected to play a crucial role in determining the cause of the tragedy.
The crash triggered an outpouring of grief and unity across the nation as Parliament expressed deep sorrow and pledged solidarity. Presidential Chief of Staff Julius Debrah called the event “a national tragedy,” ordered flags at half mast, and led the delegation that received the remains.
President John Mahama declared three days of national mourning, suspended all official activities, and directed Vice President Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang and other senior officials to visit the victims’ families. The ruling National Democratic Congress mourned the loss of several party figures, offering its deepest and most heartfelt condolences.
Internationally, messages of sympathy flowed in from governments, leaders, and organizations worldwide, including the United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Nigeria, as well as organizations such as the African Development Bank, United Nations, ECOWAS, African Union, and WTO, along with other nations including Germany, Kenya, Namibia, Italy, and the Holy See.
As Ghana grieves, the nation stands united in honouring the lives lost in this devastating incident.
May their souls rest in peace.
God bless.
Angela K from Ghana 🇬🇭
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