The Government of Ghana has officially confirmed the death of Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister for Environment, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, in a tragic military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
The incident occurred on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, near the Adansi area in the Ashanti Region. The aircraft, a Ghana Air Force Z9 helicopter, was en route from Accra to Obuasi when it lost contact with radar shortly after takeoff at 09:12 GMT.
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) had earlier announced the disappearance of the helicopter and launched a search-and-rescue operation. It was later confirmed that the aircraft had crashed and that all on board were dead.
At a press briefing, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah described the crash as a “national tragedy.”
“I have the unpleasant duty, sadly, to announce a national tragedy involving the crash of a military helicopter this morning,” he stated. “Government regrets to announce the demise of the following persons in the tragic crash.”
In addition to the two ministers, the other victims include: Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo.
“All flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice,” the Chief of Staff added.
The incident has plunged the nation into grief and left the government in mourning, with tributes expected to pour in over the coming days.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
