Eight Ghanaians, Including Two Government Ministers, Die in Devastating Helicopter Crash
By Christian Aboagye
Ghana has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of eight prominent citizens in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region. Among the deceased are two sitting ministers, top security and political officials, and dedicated military personnel.
The Z9 military helicopter, which had departed from Accra at 09:12 GMT, was en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining engagement. Shortly after takeoff, it reportedly went off radar, leading to widespread concern before the devastating news broke.
According to the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, the crash marks one of the darkest days in Ghana’s recent memory. “This is a national tragedy,” he said in a sombre statement, announcing that flags across the country are to be flown at half-mast.
Images of the burning wreckage have circulated widely, but officials say the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Names of the Deceased
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
- Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister
- Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala – Ghana Armed Forces
- Flying Officer Twum Ampadu – Ghana Armed Forces
- Sergeant Ernest Addo – Ghana Armed Forces
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep sorrow, with Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu revealing the President is “emotionally broken” by the tragic loss.
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, a seasoned statesman, had previously served as Minister for Communications and Environment. As Defence Minister, he led efforts to reinforce border security in the wake of increasing jihadist threats from neighbouring Burkina Faso. His upcoming book, A Peaceful Man in an African Democracy, about former President John Atta Mills, was due for release later this year.
Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed was a passionate environmental advocate, recognised for his tireless campaign against illegal gold mining (Galamsey), which has devastated large areas of Ghana’s ecosystem. His voice echoed loudly in the call for sustainable development.
The other victims were equally instrumental in shaping Ghana’s democratic and security landscape. From Alhaji Muniru Mohammed’s experience in both agriculture and national security, to Dr. Samuel Sarpong’s loyal service to the NDC, and Mr. Samuel Aboagye’s political contributions — their loss is felt not only by their families but by the entire nation.
Important Public Alert – A Call for Respect
We are deeply disturbed by the circulation of graphic videos and photos showing the wreckage and bodies of the victims on social media. We strongly urge all individuals to cease sharing these disturbing images immediately. Out of respect for the dignity of the deceased and the privacy of their grieving families, we ask that any such content be deleted without delay.
Let us not allow our grief to be tainted by insensitivity. Mourning must be dignified.
Tributes from the Diaspora
The Krisem News Team, together with the Manchester Branch of the National Democratic Congress (UK), extends our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and comrades of the fallen. This tragedy is not only Ghana’s loss; it is a loss to the wider African diaspora and to all who value peace, service, and democratic governance.
We stand in solidarity with our motherland during this time of national grief.
A Nation Remembers
This Black Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, will be etched in the nation’s memory as a day of immeasurable loss. Yet even as we mourn, we must carry forward the visions and ideals these individuals stood for peace, justice, service, and the unwavering commitment to Ghana’s progress.
May their souls rest in perfect peace. May their legacy endure.
