Adansi Akrofuom, Ashanti Region | August 6, 2025 — A tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District has claimed the lives of several high-ranking Ghanaian officials, including the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
The fatal incident occurred on Wednesday, August 6, involving a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 military helicopter that lost contact en route to Obuasi.
Also confirmed dead are:
- Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Samuel Aboagye, former Member of Parliament
- Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC and a presidential staffer
The helicopter was carrying eight individuals, including three crew members:
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
- Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
All on board are believed to have perished in the crash.
Helicopter Lost Contact Shortly After Takeoff
Initial reports indicate that the aircraft went off radar shortly after takeoff. Emergency response teams were deployed to the crash site, where graphic images obtained by Citi News showed the charred remains of victims and wreckage.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who was attending an anti-illegal mining event nearby, reportedly left the programme upon hearing the news and proceeded to the scene.
In a statement, the Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that efforts are ongoing to assess the full extent of the crash. The exact cause remains unknown, and investigations are underway.
A Nation in Mourning
The incident marks one of the deadliest air disasters involving government officials in recent Ghanaian history. It also comes just over a year after a non-fatal helicopter crash near Bonsukrom in March 2024.
Authorities are expected to release an official list of the deceased and further details as investigations progress.
