The Government of Ghana has confirmed that Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed were among eight (8) people killed in a tragic Ghana Air Force helicopter crash near Obuasi earlier today.
The crash, involving a Z-9 military helicopter, occurred shortly after the aircraft departed Accra.
It reportedly went off radar and later crashed into a tree in Adansi Brofeyedu, with eyewitnesses describing a devastating scene.
The wreckage was burned beyond recognition, and all eight occupants, including three Air Force crew members and five high-profile government and party officials died on impact.
The Chief of Staff of the Republic of Ghana Hon. Julius Debrah during an emergency press conference today 6 August 2025, confirmed the identities of persons involved in the crash.
Confirmed Fatalities
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
- Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman, National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Squadron Leader Peter – Crew
- Flying Officer Twum Ampadu – Crew
- Sergeant Ernest Addo – Crew
Residents of Adansi Brofeyedu said they heard a loud crash and rushed to the site, where they discovered the wreckage engulfed in flames.
Some reported dismembered bodies at the scene, underscoring the violent nature of the crash and the difficulty of initial victim identification.
This incident marks a profound loss for Ghana’s leadership, particularly within its defence, security, and environmental governance sectors.
The deaths of Dr. Omane Boamah and Dr. Murtala Mohammed, both key cabinet ministers, deal a significant blow to national policymaking and security coordination.
Government sources indicate that formal condolences will be issued by the Presidency. Preparations for state and military funerals are underway.
President John Mahama is expected to address the nation and declare a period of national mourning.
Military and civil aviation authorities are launching a full investigation into the cause of the crash.
The Ghana Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence are expected to lead a high-level inquiry to determine whether mechanical failure, pilot error, or external factors contributed to the tragedy.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
