Helicopter Crash: GAF Initiates Probe Into Cause- Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced the commencement of an investigation into the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofrom in the Ashanti Region.

According to him, the probe is being conducted by the GAF.

Addressing the nation a day after the tragic incident that claimed eight lives including two cabinet Ministers, he said the investigation will be transparent to unravel the cause of the accident.

“I want to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.”

He deems the mounting interest in the cause of the accident “natural” and “important”.

“These gallant men each served Ghana with distinction. As we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

On August 6, 2025, eight people including three crew and five passengers died after the Z9 helicopter they were onboard crashed and erupted into flames.

The victims were Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
§ Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress.

The rest included Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO, Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

A three-day national mourning has since been instituted with all national flags flying at half mast.

An interdenominational state funeral will be held in their honour on August 15, 2025.

Mourning them, President Mahama urged Ghanaians to use the grieving moments to reflect on their nationality, shared hope, shared humanity, and shared sorrow, setting aside differences and offering collective compassion to the bereaved families.

“This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.”

Source: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/