Forensic security analyst, Dr. Lawrence Kofi Acheampong, has called for a comprehensive forensic investigation into the recent military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two cabinet ministers, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.
His remarks follow the government’s announcement that the severely damaged remains of the victims have been flown to South Africa for advanced DNA analysis. Although the 37 Military Hospital was initially expected to conduct the identification process, the complexity of the incident required more sophisticated forensic procedures.
Dr. Acheampong emphasized that the tragedy warrants more than just basic identification through DNA testing.
“Considering the calibre of individuals involved and the impact on the nation, this calls for a full forensic audit of the crash — not just DNA,” he stated.
He advocated for a multidisciplinary approach, involving fire forensic experts, forensic pathologists, toxicologists, chemical pathologists, and forensic engineers, to explore all technical, environmental, and human factors that may have contributed to the crash.
“When we speak of forensic analysis, it’s not just DNA. We need to understand what exactly failed in the aircraft system, the environment, and any possible human errors that led to this disaster,” he added.
Dr. Acheampong concluded that only a detailed investigation can provide answers, prevent future tragedies, and offer closure to a grieving nation.
