By Lawrence Williams
A military helicopter carrying Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and seven others crashed in a forested area near Adansi Brofoyedru in the Ashanti region on Wednesday morning. Authorities say there were no survivors.
The aircraft reportedly lost contact with radar while en route to Obuasi, with Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former MP Samuel Aboagye and Samuel Sarpong, vice chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) party all on board.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
In a nationally televised address, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah expressed the government’s deep sorrow over the “tragic crash,” directing all flags to fly at half-mast until further notice.
“The president and government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country,” Debrah said.
Hon. Joseph Azumah of Akrofuom constituency, where the crash occurred, described the incident as “an immeasurable tragedy to all Ghanaians.” He said they were cooperating with ongoing investigations and emergency operations.
“As Member of Parliament for the host constituency where this tragic event occurred, I wish to assure all stakeholders that we are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities to support ongoing investigations and emergency operations,” Azumah’s statement reads.
Head of government communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu said the president has suspended all activities for the week and declared a 3-day national mourning starting August 7.
The crash has sent shockwaves across Ghana, as the nation grapples with the sudden loss of some of its key government and security officials.