Tragedy Strikes: Omane Boamah, Murtala Mohammed Among 8 Reported Dead
Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Two Ministers and Six Others in Ashanti Region
A devastating military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region has reportedly claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two prominent government ministers.
According to preliminary reports, the Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter, which was en route to Obuasi, went off radar during flight. Among the passengers were the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
The aircraft was carrying a total of eight people—three crew members and five passengers. Other occupants included a presidential staffer, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, along with members of the ministers’ security team.
Emergency response teams were quickly dispatched to the crash site. Disturbing images and footage from the scene show the charred remains of several victims. As of now, officials have not released a comprehensive list of those deceased or injured.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who was attending an event focused on anti-illegal mining operations, reportedly left the programme abruptly after receiving news of the crash and proceeded directly to the site.
In a brief statement, the Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that search and recovery operations were underway following the sudden loss of contact with the helicopter shortly after its takeoff on Wednesday morning.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and further official details are yet to be disclosed.
This tragic incident comes just over a year after a similar helicopter incident on March 19, 2024, when a military aircraft crash-landed near Bonsukrom in the Western Region. Fortunately, that earlier crash resulted in no fatalities.
Victims of the Helicopter Crash:
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
- Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman, NDC
- Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Squadron Leader Peter – Pilot
- Flying Officer Twum Ampadu – Crew Member
- Sergeant Ernest Addo – Crew Member
The nation mourns this profound loss of leadership and service. Further updates will be provided as investigations continue.