Accra: A devastating helicopter crash has rocked Ghana, claiming the lives of eight people including two senior ministers of the government. Among the deceased are Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Science, Technology and Environment Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
The military helicopter, which departed from the capital Accra at 9:12 a.m. local time, was en route to Obuasi, Patam, where the ministers were scheduled to attend a government-backed anti-illegal mining campaign event. Tragically, the aircraft went down shortly after takeoff. Charred wreckage from the crash is being widely circulated on social media, fueling a wave of national grief.
The cause of the crash remains unknown. Authorities have not released a preliminary report, and an investigation has been launched.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah described the incident as a "national disaster of immense magnitude." Flags across the country have been ordered to fly at half-mast in honor of the victims. Debrah, speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, expressed deep sorrow and offered condolences to the bereaved families.
Among the others who perished were Ghana’s Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, National Democratic Congress Party Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and helicopter crew members Peter Bafamei Anala, Manin Twum Ampadu, and Ernest Addo Mensah.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Ghana’s political landscape, prompting tributes from across the continent and expressions of support from international allies.