The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) is calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the military helicopter crash that killed eight people in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6.
The fatal crash claimed the lives of several high-ranking officials, including the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. Others onboard included top national security officials and Ghana Armed Forces crew members.
In a statement released on Thursday, August 7, the BPS described the incident as a national tragedy and urged the government and the military to adopt international standards in investigating the cause of the crash.
The group recommended going beyond internal reviews to embrace international best practices, including the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Annex 13 guidelines, which are globally recognised for civil aviation accident investigations.
“The tragedy calls not only for empathy but for a credible, evidence-based investigation and transparent communication,” the BPS stated.
The Bureau emphasized that principles such as impartiality, thorough analysis, and public accountability are just as critical in military cases as they are in civilian incidents.
It called on the government to release a preliminary report within 30 days, provide regular progress updates, and clearly communicate the makeup of the investigation team.
Additionally, the BPS cautioned against public speculation, stressing that premature conclusions could distort facts and erode trust in the investigation.
The organisation also urged investigators to address key questions publicly, including the helicopter’s mission, its maintenance history, the crew’s training and readiness, and any communications made before the crash. It further encouraged the government to share its procedures for supporting the families of the victims.
“This is a moment that calls for national unity, truth, and action,” the statement read. “The lessons we draw from this tragedy must lead to stronger safety systems and greater accountability in both military and civilian operations.”
The Ghana Armed Forces is expected to lead the official investigation, while the nation continues to mourn the fallen. National flags have been ordered to fly at half-mast, with funeral details to be announced in the coming days.
Source: Adomonline.com
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