President John Dramani Mahama has announced the establishment of a full-scale investigation into the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6.
Addressing the nation on Thursday, August 7, 2025, President Mahama described the incident as a “devastating national tragedy” and paid glowing tribute to the victims, who included senior government officials, military officers, and public servants.
“Squadron Leader Anala, Flying Officer Ampadu, and Sergeant Addo were dedicated members of our Air Force, embodying the best of their profession,” the President said.
“Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna was a humble yet effective public servant. Samuel Sarpong was a respected statesman, and Mr. Samuel Aboagye was a promising leader. Dr. Omane Boamah was a brilliant and dedicated leader. Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed was a passionate voice for his constituents and a champion for environmental stewardship,” he continued.
“These gallant men each served Ghana with distinction.”
The helicopter, operated by the Ghana Armed Forces, was en route to Obuasi for an official assignment when it went down under unclear circumstances.
Reports say the crash occurred in a forested area within the Adansi Akrofuom District, killing all eight individuals on board instantly.
President Mahama acknowledged that many Ghanaians are demanding answers, and assured the public that the government is committed to transparency and accountability.
“As we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important. I want to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash,” he stated.
According to the President, a formal Board of Inquiry has been set up to determine the cause of the accident.
He added that both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, often referred to as the “black box” have been successfully recovered to aid in the investigation.
“All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment,”Mahama added.
The government has also declared a three-day national mourning period, during which flags will fly at half-mast across the country in honour of the fallen.
This is the deadliest military aviation accident in Ghana in recent years, and the loss of two cabinet ministers Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed has sent shockwaves across the political landscape.
More details are expected as the Board of Inquiry begins its work in the coming days.
