Tragedy struck Ghana on Wednesday, August 6, as a military helicopter crash claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two prominent government ministers.
According to the CNN, incident occurred in the Ashanti region while the aircraft was en route from the capital city, Accra, to the mining town of Obuasi.
Among the deceased are Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Also on board were Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, the acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate.
The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that the helicopter, a Z-9 model, lost contact with air traffic control shortly after departure.
The aircraft was carrying five passengers and three crew members. The flight crew has been identified as Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah—all of whom perished in the crash.
In a video statement, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah described the incident as a “national tragedy,” expressing deep sorrow on behalf of the presidency and the people of Ghana. “The nation is in mourning. These were men of integrity who served this country with dedication. Their sudden loss is a devastating blow,” Debrah said.
He also announced that national flags will be flown at half-mast indefinitely in honor of the deceased.
Authorities say investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and the military have launched a joint probe.
The government is expected to release further details as the situation develops.
“This is a dark day for our country. We have lost patriots,” a senior government official told reporters at the scene.