Ghana Air Disaster: Defence and Environment Ministers Among Eight Dead in Helicopter Crash
In a tragic aviation incident in Ghana, a military helicopter crashed on Wednesday in the Ashanti region, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals, including Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. This marks one of the country's most severe air disasters in over ten years.
The Z-9 helicopter had set off from Accra, the nation's capital, heading towards Obuasi, a significant center for gold mining in the northwest. It disappeared from radar shortly after entering the Ashanti region, with the wreckage eventually discovered in a secluded forested area near Sikaman.
The crash claimed the lives of notable figures such as National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice-Chair Samuel Sarpong and senior national security advisor Muniru Mohammed, in addition to four crew members.
The Ghana Armed Forces have confirmed the crash and assured a comprehensive investigation into its cause. Although the Z-9 helicopter is commonly utilized for transport and medical evacuations and is regarded as safe, authorities have stated that it is too soon to ascertain what led to the abrupt crash.
Footage from the scene, widely shared online, depicted the helicopter's debris engulfed in flames, with local residents attempting to offer assistance.
The government of Ghana has labeled the event a "national tragedy." In the aftermath, mourners have gathered at the late Defence Minister's residence and the NDC headquarters in Accra to honor the deceased leaders.
Ghana is recognized for having a commendable aviation safety record. The previous major crash occurred in 2014 when a helicopter crash off the coast resulted in three fatalities. In 2012, an accident involving a cargo plane in Accra led to the deaths of at least 10 civilians.
An official military inquiry team is on-site, and additional information is awaited as investigations continue.
