Defence Minister, Dr Peter Omane Boamah, Environment Minister, Murtala Mohammed and six others were killed whilst on their way to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining programme on August 6, 2025.

In celebrating the heroic efforts of the youth in the area, the President gifted them a sum of 100,000 cedis and plaques to the young men who worked tirelessly and assisted in the operations to recover the bodies and the helicopter wreckage.

Presenting the cash and citations at a durbar in the community, National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, expressed the gratitude of the President and the government to the young men.

“The President says he is really grateful for your efforts. One day when your children see the plaques, they will be glad to know their parents helped in efforts to recover the bodies of the eight heroes and have their names etched in the history books of Ghana,” he said.

The young men are also expected to be offered job opportunities in the military and emergency service duties.

Mr. Nketia also disclosed that an amount of 20,000 cedis have been gifted to the traditional leaders for any other ritual activities needed to be performed in the community following the tragic crash.

He further assured the residents that the government will work to complete construction works on the untarred road leading to the community.

“We have spoken with the contractor to return to site for the construction to continue so the road could be completed in earnest,” he assured.

Mr. Nketia also noted that the government is ready to support the construction of the stalled community centre for Brofoyeduru and Sikaman communities.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, August 16, the former Tamale Central MP said only a credible and impartial probe would uncover the true cause of the tragedy and restore public confidence.

Mr Fuseini noted that while the state has the capacity to conduct its own inquiry, an independent investigation would guarantee transparency and dispel any perceptions of political interference.

“We must have an independent third party look into the helicopter crash,” he stressed, adding that the gravity of the incident demanded absolute accountability.

The crash, which occurred on Wednesday, August 6, claimed the lives of eight prominent figures, including Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed.

A state funeral was held on Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square in Accra, where leaders, security personnel, and citizens gathered to honour the victims.

The tragedy has plunged the nation into mourning, with mounting calls for a transparent and thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.

Source: Ernest K. Arhinful

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Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, August 16, the former Tamale Central MP explained that the assignment was focused on safeguarding the environment while ensuring communities benefit from their natural resources.

“What our fallen heroes were going to do was to promote responsible mining, which means mining the natural resources without damaging the environment,” Mr. Fuseini said. “That is what they were going to do, and not to fight galamsey.”

He stressed that their task was to advance sustainable practices in the mining sector, describing it as crucial for Ghana’s long-term development.

The crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, at Adansi Akrofrom in the Ashanti Region, claiming the lives of eight prominent figures.

Among the dead were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed. Their sudden deaths have left the nation in shock and mourning.

A solemn state funeral was held on Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square in Accra, where leaders, security officials, and citizens gathered to pay their final respects.

The tragedy has sparked widespread calls for a full-scale investigation, with many stressing the need to establish the exact cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.

Source: Ernest K. Arhinful

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A solemn state funeral will take place at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra at 7:30 a.m., drawing together the country’s leadership, bereaved families, and citizens from all walks of life to honour their memory.

Watch a livestream of happenings below:

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Dr. Ofosu Ampofo admitted that it is hard to come to terms with the incident.

“One question that God has not given us an answer to till now is why—why them? Why did this happen? Why should they go through such an unfortunate incident? That’s the only answer God has not given us,” he said.

“Even the Bible says in Romans that you cannot search for God’s knowledge. Who are we, as mortal beings, to question Him and ask how it happened?” he quizzed.

He stressed that the deceased were in the care of some of the best-trained pilots in the Ghana Armed Forces, making the tragedy even more shocking.

“I believe these pilots were among the best. The Minister of Defence is in charge of the army, air force, and navy, so will opt for the best of the best. Ministers and other dignitaries will not just fly with any pilot. It cannot be that inexperienced pilots were used, but God knows best, and we cannot question Him,” he stated.

Dr. Ofosu Ampofo, who is also the Board Chairman of COCOBOD and a Policy Advisor at the Office of the President, described the tragedy as “like a film”—something too surreal to believe.

“It is very difficult for us to swallow. I still don’t believe this is what has happened. It’s like a film show. You can’t fathom it,” he said.

He called on the Ghana Armed Forces to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash and prevent such incidents in the future.

From an Islamic perspective, he acknowledged that death comes when it is destined but expressed that the victims “did not deserve this painful death.”

“The Muslims believe that if it’s your time, whatever God has planned will happen. But I believe these people did not deserve this death. It is painful,” he lamented.

He also saluted the “gallant fallen men” for their ultimate sacrifice in service to Ghana.

“What is left is for us, as a nation, to come together to fight the illegal mining they fought against—to make their souls happy at least,” he urged.

A state burial for the victims is scheduled for Friday, with final preparations already underway.

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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He issued the caution when the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace following last week’s tragic helicopter clash in Obuasi, which claimed the lives of eight people.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II described the incident as a “national concern” and expressed deep sympathy to President John Mahama and the affected families.

He underscored the need for Ghana’s political actors to treat aviation safety and security equipment procurement with the seriousness it deserves.

“Enough of the politicizing of the purchase of presidential planes and helicopters. Human lives are at stake here. We must invest to safeguard their safety and efficiency,” the Asantehene said..

According to him most of the military aircraft are currently not in good form for continuous use, calling for the need to invest in current ones.

The Asantehene urged all sides of the political divide to unite in addressing the country’s aviation and security logistics gaps to prevent future tragedies.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, he stressed the importance of the helicopter’s black box in determining the cause of the crash.

“If the helicopter had exploded mid-air, its parts would have scattered. Only the black box can reveal what truly happened. The black box starts recording the moment the helicopter is started. Since all the crew members perished, it is the only device that can certify the events leading to the crash” he said.

He urged the public not to rush into conclusions.

“We should be patient and leave it for the authorities to figure out what happened. None of us were in the helicopter, so we cannot speculate.”

Commander Sogbodjor also disclosed challenges in accessing crash sites.

“Where the helicopter fell, inside a dense forest, it was difficult to reach. That is why the armed forces acted the way they did. Years ago, a helicopter crash in Obuasi took five days just to locate the wreckage, so no one should speak about things they do not know.”

He explained the process for aviation investigations: “Pilots follow strict laws when flying and the armed forces have procedures to conduct thorough investigations. Something may have happened to bring the helicopter down at this height, but until we get results from the black box, we should tread cautiously.”

Commander Sogbodjor added that speculation about mid-air explosions or adverse weather should be avoided.

“No pilot sets out planning to crash. The Z-9 came down in a forest and was retrievable, which allowed the recovery of the bodies early. Speculating without evidence is unhelpful.”

The helicopter, carrying three crew and five passengers, was flying from Accra to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining event when it crashed.

President John Mahama has announced the establishment of an Accident Investigation Board to probe the cause of the crash.

Meanwhile, Deputy Majority Chief Whip, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe Ghan­sah, suggested that evidence points to a mid-air blast rather than impact at crash, as reported on Okay FM.

While adverse weather has been suggested as a factor, Commander Sogbodjor stressed that “technical conclusions should come only from the official investigation. This is standard practice in aviation, and it is prudent to await the findings of the appointed experts before drawing any conclusions.”

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Ms. Appiah Kannin said her final call with Aboagye lasted only 16 seconds and took place shortly after 9 a.m.

“It was a brief call. He told me he was coming, but I had no idea he was part of the crew on that helicopter,” she recalled.

She explained that Aboagye only told her that her “godfather” was on his way and asked her to arrange for a car to meet them at their landing location.

“He mentioned there would be other dignitaries coming, but I didn’t know Aboagye himself was part of them,” she added.

Aboagye, who was serving as Acting Deputy Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), was aboard the ill-fated Z-9 Air Force helicopter that crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District — a tragedy that has plunged the nation into mourning.

Ms. Appiah Kannin revealed that during the morning, Aboagye called her several times to change the pickup location for their helicopter landing.

He kept telling me the landing point had changed, and I was trying to adjust plans,” she said.

However, her concern grew when she called again and his phone was switched off.

 “I tried reaching Alhaji Muniru too, but his phone was also off. At that point, I started to worry,” she recounted.

She described Aboagye as “a soft talker” and said nothing in his tone suggested danger during their last conversation.

The crash claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians: Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manean Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Madam Kannin said she was at a park when Adom News reporter Isaac Normanya approached her with the news.

“He told me there had been a helicopter crash at Sikaman, and when he said that, I shouted ‘Jesus!’ and forgot I was in the midst of people,” she recalled.

She explained that she immediately tried to call some of the passengers she knew, but the calls would not go through.

“I was so confused. I didn’t even know what to do at that moment. I wasn’t sure if I should tell the regional minister because he was sitting on the podium,” she said.

Madam Kannin said she first informed the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Akrofuom, who was nearby, before later breaking the news to the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.

“When the regional minister was about to speak, I told him, and he advised me to stay calm and not let people know what had happened. He then found a way to take a break and attend to the matter,” she added.

The MCE said they both made the journey to the crash site, although the minister travelled in another vehicle.

“We got the information around 10:30 a.m. When we arrived, all we could see were flames high up on a mountain. It takes about two hours from town to reach the site, and no car could get there, so the regional minister and others had to walk,” she narrated.

The crash claimed the lives of eight prominent Ghanaians: Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manean Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Alhaji Muniru and Dr. Murtala were buried on Sunday, August 10, in accordance with Islamic rites. An inter-denominational state burial for all victims is set for August 15.

The Ghana Armed Forces has confirmed that investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with assistance from international experts.

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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The crash, which occurred en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of eight people, including two ministers of state.

Speaking on Burning Issues on Adom FM, Dr. Otoo stressed that Ghana’s weather conditions are generally favorable for flying and that the pilot in question was highly experienced.

“Pilots are trained to the highest degree, and for one to be assigned such high-profile passengers means he is not inexperienced. I don’t believe this was a case of bad weather,” he said.

According to him, the incident could have been the result of mechanical failure or even sabotage.

He noted that aircraft undergo thorough pre-flight checks, but a lapse in servicing or deliberate interference could have caused the crash.

“The moment I heard about the incident, I told myself this was sabotage. Before carrying important personalities, an aircraft must be checked to the highest level of precision. An aircraft cannot just go down easily like that,” Dr. Otoo stated.

He added that the total loss of an aircraft’s power in flight is rare and should not automatically be attributed to pilot error.

Source: Kwame Kulenu

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In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he stressed the need for Ghana to learn from such disasters.

“Accidents happen everywhere, even in the most advanced countries. But the real question is: how do we respond when they occur?” he asked.

He disclosed the importance of proper emergency procedures, noting, “We have technology like the black box that records everything during a flight. This is crucial for understanding what went wrong.”

However, Prof. Asante expressed disappointment at the apparent lack of an effective emergency response at the crash site.

“When the accident happened at Adansi, I saw no security personnel securing the scene to aid investigations. There were no fire service vehicles or ambulances on site,” he said.

He warned, “If we cannot manage these critical aspects after such a serious accident, especially one involving public officials, it means we have not learned from previous disasters.”

While expressing sympathy for the families affected, Prof. Asante urged that Ghana must prioritize prevention.

“Accidents cannot be completely stopped, but we can take strong measures to prevent them from turning deadly. It is time we stop only sympathizing and start acting.”

The August 6 crash claimed the lives of:

• Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence
• Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
• Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
• Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, military officer
• Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, military officer
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, military officer

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Prof. Asante described the experience for the families as deeply traumatic.

“This is a very painful and traumatic experience for the families. Many of them are struggling to sleep, and some may even have to rely on sleeping tablets just to find some rest,” he said.

He added that the trauma is worsened by the graphic images and details shown repeatedly in the media, revealing the circumstances of their loved ones’ tragic deaths.

“When you see how your loved ones died, especially on TV and social media, it adds to the pain and makes healing even more difficult,” he explained.

Prof. Asante urged Ghanaians to come together not only to offer words of encouragement but also to focus on preventing such disasters in the future.

“As a nation, we should encourage one another with messages of hope and unity. More importantly, we must work collectively to ensure that measures are put in place to prevent such fatalities,” he stated.

The helicopter crash claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, including

• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence
• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
• Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
• Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC
• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, military officer
• Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, military officer
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, military officer

Prof. Asante’s call underscores the need for comprehensive care for victims’ families and stronger preventative policies to avoid future tragedies.

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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This incident follows a similar emergency landing involving the same helicopter at Ajumako Kokoben on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The aircraft was en route to Prestea in the Western Region when the pilot was forced to divert and land at the Ajumako Kokoben Community School park around 10:30 a.m. due to bad weather.

Last Wednesday’s incident reportedly occurred about an hour before the tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, which claimed eight lives, including two ministers.

Following the latest event, Adom News’ Akwasi Dwamena reported that the aircraft belongs to Volta River Aviation.

The helicopter, which was traveling from Accra to Kumasi, was forced to land due to harsh weather conditions that severely reduced visibility.

An eyewitness, Bakira Tahiru, headmaster of New Generation School, told Adom News that the aircraft passed by the school and returned in less than three minutes, attempting to land there.

However, to ensure the safety of the students, the helicopter moved a short distance away behind the school before landing.

Mr. Tahiru disclosed that there were four people onboard, including two white men, and all escaped unhurt.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the emergency landing.

Source: Adomonline.com

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In a statement on Friday, August 8, the Committee commended the Ghana Armed Forces for swiftly initiating a multi-agency probe into the tragedy, which occurred in the Adansi-Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

“We commit to thoroughly reviewing the findings once available and providing our recommendations to strengthen aviation safety, operational protocols, and crisis response across our security sector,” the Committee said.

The crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Environment, Science and Technology Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna; NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong; NADMO Deputy Director-General Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

As this loss strikes at the heart of our nation’s military leadership, the Committee stated that they stand in solidarity with the bereaved families, the Government, Parliament of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the people of Ghana during this solemn time.

The Committee further said it would honour the fallen by redoubling efforts to retool the Ghana Armed Forces to enhance operational efficiency.

“May the departed souls rest in perfect peace, and may their families find strength and comfort during this difficult time,” the statement added.

Source: Myjoyonline

The Ghana Institute of Foresters (GIF) has extended its condolences to the families as it joins the country in mourning the deceased persons comprising five high-profile government officials and three gallant soldiers of the Ghana Armed Forces.

The deceased were traveling to Obuasi for an event aimed at ending illegal small-scale mining when the helicopter they were aboard crashed into the Dampia Range Forest Reserve near Sikaman Brofoyedru in the Adansi Akrofuom district of the Ashanti Region.

In a statement, the GIF expressed its deepest commiserations as it highlighted the gallant efforts of the eight in contributing their quota to national development.

“These gallant men were responding to a national call which aims, among others, to regularise and sanitise mining in our landscapes (on and off Reserves) through the formation of cooperatives and acquisition of skills, to ensure environmental conservation, responsible and sustainable mining practices in host mining communities, which are critical issues confronting the nation in recent times,” the statement read.

It continued that: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating news and the irreparable loss of the two hard-working and dedicated Cabinet Ministers, and the loss of the six other committed public servants at this critical period of our national development”.

The GIF extended sincere condolences also to the President and Government, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology and Innovation, Parliament, the Armed Forces, and the National Security for the tragic loss.

The inter-denominational funeral service forms part of a week-long national mourning programme dedicated to paying tribute to the fallen ministers, senior government officials, and military personnel.

According to the President, the commemoration will begin with an “Evening of Reflections and Memorial” on Saturday, August 9, at 5:00 p.m. at the Forecourt of the State House.

Additionally, books of condolence will be made available for public signing from Sunday, August 10, to Thursday, August 14, at key locations including:

• The Ministry of Defence

• The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology

• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• The Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters

• The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Headquarters

• The Head Office of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO)

The crash claimed the lives of five prominent state officials and three Air Force crew members. Among the deceased were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong.

Source: Adomonline

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Cpl. Dallas Thompson of the Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that the two people inside the aircraft were killed and that there were no other reported injuries. The state patrol said no one was on the barge when the crash happened.

The river was closed to commercial navigation following the crash.

The helicopter ran into a powerline and crashed around 11 a.m. Thursday on the Mississippi River about a half-mile downriver from the Alton Dam, said Rivers Pointe Fire District Chief Rick Pender.

Video provided to CBS affiliate KMOV-TV by witness Adam Briggs shows a black plume of smoke rising up from the barge.

Fire, emergency medical and law enforcement personnel responded to the crash, and federal agencies were on the way, Pender said. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash.

The Illinois State Police Department said the Lewis and Clark Bridge coming into Illinois will be closed for an undetermined amount of time, KMOV reported.

East Alton is about 20 miles north of St. Louis.

Source: cbsnews

The devastating incident occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in Sikaman, located in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

Among the deceased were Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister for Environment, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.

Also perishing in the crash were Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); and Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate. The military crew onboard—Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo—also lost their lives.

At a solemn press conference, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed the incident and announced that national flags would be flown at half-mast in honour of the deceased. He extended the government’s condolences to the bereaved families and the entire nation.

In a statement, the GFA said:
“The GFA conveys its heartfelt sympathies on the passing of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Minister for Environment; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); and Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate.”

“The Association also mourns the loss of the crew members: Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo.

“The GFA mourns the nation’s collective grief and pays tribute to the dedication and service of all these gallant men who perished in the line of duty.”

The bodies of all eight victims were airlifted to Accra on Wednesday evening as the nation begins a period of mourning.

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The tragic incident led to the death of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (MP), Minister of Environment; Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; and Samuel Sarpong, a Vice Chairman of the NDC and a former Kumasi Mayor.

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah were the crew members who also perished in the crash.

The Indonesian Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Ghana, H.E. Paskal A. B. Rois, described the tragic death of the eight as a great loss to Africa and allies of Ghana across the world, including Indonesia.

“Their loss is not only a national tragedy for Ghana but a great loss to the African continent and to nations like Indonesia that share strong diplomatic and developmental bonds with Ghana,” he said in a communique issued on behalf of the Indonesian government.

Mr. Rois said the “heartbreaking event has deeply shaken us” and eulogised the deceased as devoted personalities who served with distinction and honour in their line of duty, exhibiting “a true spirit of patriotism.”

“As we extend our prayers and support, we reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with the Republic of Ghana and the families affected by this irreparable loss. May their souls rest in eternal peace,” he concluded.

Source: Myjoyonline

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In an official statement delivered by his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed profound sympathy, affirming that the thoughts and prayers of the Nigerian government and people are with Ghana during this period of national grief.

Tinubu emphasised that the victims perished in the line of patriotic duty and urged Ghanaians, especially bereaved families, to find solace in honouring their sacrifice. He prayed for eternal peace for the departed and strength for those left behind.

The tragic crash involved a Ghana Armed Forces Z‑9 helicopter carrying three crew members and five passengers, all of whom lost their lives.

The accident occurred while the aircraft was flying from Accra to Obuasi on government assignment, following loss of radar contact shortly after takeoff.

In response to the incident, Ghanaian authorities under President Mahama ordered national flags to fly at half‑mast, and official engagements were suspended as the nation mourned its loss.

President Tinubu’s message further reiterated Nigeria’s solidarity with Ghana, offering support and shared grief during this devastating moment.

Source: Adomonline

Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, who led a delegation to console the bereaved families, revealed the regional connection during a solemn visit to the family of Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampedu—one of the deceased crew members. His wife, Naval Lieutenant Ewuradwoa Kumi-Kyeremah, is a psychologist with the 2-Garrison.

“The whole country is grieving, but particularly the Western Region. All three crew members were from here, from the Airforce Base in Takoradi, and so we have been directly hit by this unfortunate accident,” the Minister said.

The helicopter crash occurred in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. It claimed the lives of eight people, including two ministers of state and senior security officials. The crew—Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala (pilot), Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampedu (co-pilot), and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah (flight technician)—were transporting government officials to Obuasi for official duties.

Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, described the loss as one of the most painful in recent memory.

“This is a very difficult one, and every comfort is required to strengthen us through this period,” he said during the visit.

Confirmed List of Victims:

• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence

• Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – MP for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation

• Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

• Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress

• Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate

• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

• Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampedu

• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, confirmed the casualty list and described the crash as a national tragedy. In honour of the deceased, he has directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast.

The Z-9 Ghana Air Force helicopter was carrying eight people—five passengers and three crew members—on a mission from Accra to Obuasi when it crashed on Wednesday, August 6.

Earlier that day, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) announced the helicopter had gone missing after losing contact with radar shortly after taking off at 09:12 GMT. A search-and-rescue operation was immediately launched, and later confirmed that all on board had died in the crash.

Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the incident.

Source: Adomonline

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A private helicopter which was carrying a group of seven people on board has sparked a huge search party after vanishing in Italy.

Rescue teams have launched a desperate hunt for the aircraft which was set to arrive in Treviso within an hour after taking off from Capannori Lucca Tassignano airport in Lucca.

However, the helicopter mysteriously went off the radar, which sparked fears from officials who raised the alarm.

The search mission which took place between the regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna had to be put to a halt last night ( June 10) and recommenced this morning.

It is believed the helicopter was hired by a business named Roto Court, which manufactures hygiene products and household chemicals.

Company director Giuliano Gelain that they were “confident” the helicopter did not crash as no emergency signal was received.

He said that the helicopter flew customers to and from the sites twice a day, reports news agency ANSA

Gelain added: “I am convinced that it did not crash otherwise, according to the technicians, an alarm signal would have been sent, which we have never received.”

The chopper was carrying the Italian pilot and six others – with four of them being Turkish citizens and two Lebanese, reports La Stampa.

They left the airport at 9.30am local time on Thursday, June 10, and were expected to land by 10.30am the same day.

This comes as Volodymyr Zelensky in an address this morning urged Ukrainians to continue fighting Putin’s forces. 

The comic-turned-wartime president then thundered ‘what more is needed’ to convince Joe Biden to enforce a no-fly zone – an action which could widen the war and suck in NATO – after he accused the West of cowardice in the face of Russian aggression. 

Video from the frontlines, shared on social media, showed clips of an aircraft dropping rapidly from the air as cheers from Ukrainians could be heard in the background.

Those who shared the content online say the incident was filmed in Chernihiv, in northern Ukraine.  

Further video then shows two pilots parachuting as they flee the aircraft; photos and clips shared on Twitter claim one of the pilots survived while the second died. 

More footage then showed the captured Russian pilot, bloodied from his escape, being questioned by Ukrainian forces as they demanded to know his name and orders. 

In another video soldiers can be seen filming with the captured pilot as they get him to say ‘glory to Ukraine’. They can be heard asking ‘why were you bombing people’ ? As the man numbly replies that he was ordered to.

They then say, ‘you didn’t know anything?’, to which he replied that he didn’t, prompting the soldiers to say ‘that’s your (Russian soldiers’) favourite phrase’.

Ukrainian soldiers could then be seen calling someone on the pilot’s phone, seemingly saved under a pet name, with graphic threats of what they will do to him.

Another photo shared on Twitter appears to show a man, understood to be the captured pilot in the videos, standing next to Syrian president Bashar al-Assad.

It is understood that the aircraft, which was shot down, is a Sukhoi Su-34; a fighter-bomber which had also been used in Syria. 

A second Russian aircraft was also captured going down in the country’s Mykolaiv oblast; another video on Telegram seems to suggest the pilot was captured as a man was filmed being questioned. 

A third video from this morning also seems to show an aircraft soaring before it is targeted by Ukrainian weapons.

In the clip, it can then be seen lighting up in flames as it pummels down, exploding in a fireball as it reaches the ground.

The video has been widely shared on social media. Although it is unclear how the footage was captured, some on Twitter have suggested the clip was taken by a drone.

It is not clear when or where the video was filmed but investigative journalism group Bellingcat has geolocated the footage to have taken place in Kozarovychi in the Kyiv Oblast – around 25 miles from Kyiv.

The group has been focusing on verifying footage from the conflict since it began on February 24.

The video was also shared by Kyiv Independent reporter Illia Ponomarenko, and now has more than 39,300 likes.

It appears the original video was shared by a Kyiv resident on Facebook.

A translation of the caption, in Ukrainian, seems to say the country’s forces ‘shot down a Russian combat helicopter’ as ‘aerial reconnaissance shares an operational video’.

“Glory to Ukraine,” he adds.

The 73kg bronze statue is temporary but Medina hopes a permanent version is sited in a prominent Los Angeles spot.

He took the statue to the California site, where nine people died, from dawn to dusk on Wednesday.

“This is all on my own, no one asked me to do it,” said Medina.

“On this day, the second anniversary of the accident, I decided to bring it up from sunrise to sunset and create a bit of a healing process for fans.

“Today was special because I witnessed a lot of that. People would come up and they would leave with some sort of satisfaction.”

The names of the nine victims of the crash are engraved on the statue’s base, which also includes an inscription of Bryant’s famous quote ‘Heroes come and go, but legends are forever.

According to President Akufo-Addo, hangars for the helicopters, located at the National Police Training School, have been completed, and six officers, who will fly these helicopters, have completed their training in South Africa.

The President made this known on Friday, when he delivered a speech at the graduation ceremony of the 50^th Cadet Officers’ Course, at the Police Training Academy, at Tesano, Accra.

Speaking at the event, the President noted that Government, in recognition of the difficulties and dangers confronting police personnel in the discharge of their duties, remains committed to resourcing the Service, by the provision of adequate personnel and logistics to enable them to deliver on their mandate.

“To this end, since I came to office in January 2017, a total of 568 vehicles, including 15 operational buses, have been presented by government to the Service, a feat unprecedented in its history,” he said.

Apart from the existing Formed Police Unit (FPU) in Accra, President Akufo-Addo revealed that an additional 22 light armoured vehicles have been procured for use by the FPUs to be established in November in the Northern, Upper East and Ashanti Regions.

In the next one-and-half years, FPUs will be established in the remaining regions that do not have FPUs.

“Two hundred motorbikes have also been distributed to members of the Community Policing initiative to boost the presence of the police in our communities. Modern communication equipment and 4,500 fragmentation jackets have been procured and delivered to the Service to protect officers, and help ensure effective policing,” President Akufo-Addo said.

He continued, “At the beginning of my mandate, in 2017, there were 800 CCTV installations in the country for surveillance. At the end of my first term, the figure had gone up to 6,500, and, by the end of the year, another 3,500 would have been added, making a total of almost 11,000 in the country.”

Government, the President added, has strengthened the cyber crime-fighting capabilities of the Service, through the setting up of a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) Centre at the National Communications Authority (NCA).

Towards protecting the country’s maritime waters, and its offshore oil and gas installations, the President revealed that the Ministry of the Interior has procured three Alligator Silver boats in fulfilment of the pledge he made to expand and resource the Marine Police, in order to help them work with the Ghana Navy.

In addition to retooling the forensics lab of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), he said that, for the first time in the history of the Department, crime officers are given a monthly allowance to support their investigations.

“On addressing the housing needs of the Service, the construction of 320 housing units at the National Police Training School is at an advanced stage of completion.

“Work is ongoing on the construction of a barracks at Kwabenya, to replace the one adjacent to the DVLA at 37, which is not fit for purpose. A new mechanical workshop for the Service is also being constructed at Bohye, near Haatso,” he added. 

In addition to the yearly increments of salaries for all police personnel, government, he said, has placed them, like the other members of the security services, under the CAP 30 Pension Scheme.

“Clearance has been given for the Police Service to recruit some 5,000 more personnel to augment the manpower base of the Service, in a bid to meet the recommended UN police-civilian ratio of 1:500. Prior to this, a total of 4,000 persons were recruited into the Police Service from 2018 to 2020,” he added.

It was stated that the helicopter was purchased in September 2020 to ferry the pastor and other officials of the church across the world for the preaching of the gospel.

The helicopter was, however, suspended from flying by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in April 2021 over alleged expired documents and spare parts which needed to be replaced.

According to Church Gist, the total cost of maintaining the helicopter for a single month was about $300,000, which was footed for only six months.

This has caused the renowned gospel preacher to sell off the aircraft, the news site reported.

It was also stated that the managers of the aircraft charged $50,000 (N20 million) monthly for Nav charges.

It was gathered that the 79-year-old man of God has resorted to using the helicopter belonging to Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church for his missionary travels.

Meanwhile, Oyedepo had said that God showed him wings in April 1982 indicative that the ministry he was called to pastor will be operating with ‘aircrafts’.

This has led the Living Faith Church to own a hangar to manage her aircraft in order to further reduce the costs of running the aircraft.

Sheikh Ismail Sheikh Ibrahim, 24, a school dropout from Maharashtra’s Fulsawangi village in Mahagaon tehsil, India, had built a single-seater helicopter prototype out of steel pipes.

His ambition was to accomplish something extraordinary in order to bring fame to his village. So he decided to build a chopper called ‘Munna Helicopter’ after his nickname.

“Inspired by the character of Rancho in the film ‘3 Idiots,’ Ismail wanted to do something unique and thus decided to build a helicopter in the village,” his friend Sachin told the Times of India.

He began working on his dream project after gathering information about the design and assembly by watching YouTube videos.

 “It took nearly two years for Ismail to collect all the parts needed. He also readied the prototype of a single-seater helicopter by welding steel pipes and fitted a Maruti 800 engine to power it.”

 Ismail wanted to show off his helicopter to the entire village on Independence Day, so he decided to test the prototype in front of his friends near his workshop on Tuesday, August 10th.

Everyone witnessed Ismail start the engine. The rotor blades then began to move quickly. Following that, the tail rotor blade was ripped from the body and collided with the main blades on top.

Before anyone could intervene, a broken blade slashed Ismail’s throat, causing him to collapse on the ground.

He was rushed to Pusad’s nearest hospital. He did not, however, survive.

Bryant, 41, and Gianna, 13, were riding in one of his helicopters on their way to his Mamba Sports Academy when the aircraft suddenly crashed into the hillside of Calabasas, Calif.

The seven other passengers John, Keri and Alyssa Altobelli; Christina Mauser; Sarah and Payton Chester; and pilot Ara Zobayan also perished.

Although there are no clear answers as to what led to the fatal crash, reports have noted that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s and Los Angeles Police departments grounded their choppers on Sunday due to heavy fog.

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Yahoo Lifestyle talked to aviation expert Scott Shappell, PhD, who is a professor of human factors and systems at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a developer of a system used in human factor investigations worldwide, about what happens during a helicopter crash investigation.

“When you go in and look at an aviation accident, no matter what that accident involves, initially your first reaction is to look for survivors,” explains Shappell, who spent 16 years as an aerospace experimental psychologist with the U.S. Navy. “Then you’re looking for causes. You’re trying to identify what brought the aircraft down.”

Shappell also noted that during the rigorous investigation, officials will look into possible mechanical issues, as well as the background of the pilot, including a detailed history of the individual passenger’s last 72 hours.

“After everything else has been extinguished,” he says, “we start looking at human factors. What was different that day than any other day that the individual may have been flying?’”

Due to helicopters having to fly at a lower altitude and slower speed, inclement weather makes the flight more difficult and even dangerous. Shappell explains that because Zobayan could not see out of his window due to poor visibility, he may have had to follow instrument flight rules, which would have forced Zobayan to rely on his instruments to tell him where he was.

“So the aircraft — Sikorsky aircraft — are [made] very well and very safe,” he says. “The fact that there may be two positions to fly doesn’t require two people to fly. Only one person would have the controls at any one time.”

Still, with little to no information about what caused the crash, Shappell says the most important thing right now is to let the families involved grieve.

“I’ve been around fatal accidents for 25 years, and I’ve talked to people who have lost loved ones,” Shappell tells Yahoo Lifestyle. “It destroys families and those families need our support…this isn’t something that we’ll have an answer for in the next couple days or for that matter, maybe even a couple months.”

He adds: “In the meantime, wrap your arms around your loved ones and be thankful for the day that we have.”

Rosemere do Nascimento Silva, from Sao Paulo, Brazil, was killed in December last year along with three others – the pilot, her brother, and a photographer who was six months pregnant.

The 32-year-old’s fiancé, Udirley Damasceno, was left waiting at the wedding venue unaware of what she was planning to do, or of the fatal air crash.

Venezuela’s Supreme Court has been attacked by grenades dropped from a helicopter in what President Nicolás Maduro called a “terrorist attack”.

Footage on social media shows a police helicopter circling over the city before shots and a loud bang are heard.

The police officer said to have piloted the stolen aircraft issued a statement denouncing the “criminal government”. His whereabouts are unknown.

It comes after mass protests against the political and economic crisis.

The Supreme Court is regularly criticised by the Venezuelan opposition for its rulings which bolster Mr Maduro’s hold on power.

What happened?

In an address from the presidential palace, President Maduro said the helicopter had flown over the Supreme Court and also the justice and interior ministries.

Officials quoted by Reuters news agency said four grenades were dropped on the court and 15 shots had been fired at the interior ministry.

No injuries were reported but Mr Maduro said “a social event” had been taking place at the Supreme Court and the attack could have caused “dozens of deaths”. One of the grenades failed to detonate, he added.

Mr Maduro has placed the military on alert.

“I have activated the entire armed forces to defend the peace,” he said. “Sooner or later, we are going to capture that helicopter and those who carried out this terror attack.”

Who flew the helicopter?

The police officer identified himself as Oscar Pérez in video statements posted on the social media platform Instagram.

Appearing in military fatigues and flanked by armed, masked men in uniform, he appealed to Venezuelans to oppose “tyranny”.

“We are a coalition of military employees, policemen and civilians who are looking for balance and are against this criminal government,” he said.

“We don’t belong to any political tendency or party. We are nationalists, patriots and institutionalists.”

He said the “fight” was not against the security forces but “against the impunity of this government. It is against tyranny”.

It is not clear how much support, if any, the officer has.

Mr Maduro said the pilot had worked for former Interior and Justice Minister Miguel Rodriguez Torres, but was no longer with him.

The three helicopters costing $ 50 million each, Dr Steve Manteaw of the Public Interest and Accountability Committee alleged are missing from Atuabo, the site of the Ghana Gas company.

“The three helicopters that were bought for $ 150 million are nowhere to be found at the site…I have asked about the helicopters but there are no answers forth coming…,” he said on Adom FM’s Morning Show, ‘Dwaso Nsem’ on Tuesday.

According to him, the leadership of Ghana Gas in Atuabo are surprised about the purchasing of the three (3) helicopters for the project as according to them, there is no helipad for the helicopters.

His revelation was corroborated by revelations from the Monitoring and Evaluation Minister, Dr Anthony Akoto Osei that four out of seven helicopters which were to be purchased for the project has broken down.

The four, he said were initially purchased at the cost of 100 million dollars for the project.

These four (4) helicopters, he said could have been bought for eight (8) million dollars each instead of the $ 25 million each spent on the purchase of the four.

“The four (4) could have just cost the nation $ 32 million and not $ 100 million, go to the Americas and we would get them for less instead of purchasing them at that expensive cost from China…,” he said.

Dr Anthony Akoto Osei who was at the time the Minority Spokesperson on Finance said Ghana acquired a loan from the Chinese Development Bank to purchase the helicopters.

Ironically, the four which were commissioned by President John Mahama in September 2015 have all broken down.

Additional loan facility, he said was sought from China to purchase the other three (3) helicopters for the project.

And these helicopters, Dr Steve Manteaw said cannot be traced and hence urged that persons who were mandated to ensure its procurement ought to be brought to book.

Cost of Ghana Gas Project and payment of taxes

The actual cost of the Ghana project which started in 2012, Dr Steve Manteaw said is still unknown as the $ 850 million which was initially earmarked for the project was increased.

The loan for the project, Monitoring and Evaluation Minister, Dr Anthony Akoto-Osei emphasized was not presented to Parliament despite his insistence and hence said he would demand of the Energy Minister to appear before Parliament and answer questions about the project.

“Fortunately, the main characters in the Ghana Gas Project are still around and we can call them to come and clarify issues for us…I will demand in Parliament that they come and clarify issues on the award of contracts and others…,” he added.

At the start of project, Dr Manteaw said he went to the offices of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in search of tax file of Cinopec but couldn’t be traced both in Accra and the Western Region.

Research, he said showed that the company was given tax concession by Ghana Gas; an action which was against the Constitution as Parliament is the only body that can waive tax for foreign companies.

Interestingly, it was in 2016 that the finance ministry brought the tax file demanding that Cinopec should be exempted from tax.

Diligence on his part, he said led to Ghana retrieving as much as 15 million Ghana cedis in tax from Cinopec Gas Company.