The Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, Dr Kingsley Agyemang, has called for a renewed sense of awakening to combat illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey.

This call follows the tragic death of Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and seven others in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, while en route to Obuasi to attend a galamsey-related programme.

In a strongly worded message, Dr Agyemang stated that "If these gallant men were on their way to confront the scourge of illegal mining, then the fight against galamsey must now assume the same urgency with which we respond."

He emphasised further that beyond the heavy outpour of tributes to mourn the victims, their tragic death must be the country's great awakening.

"This painful moment reminds us of the quiet risks borne each day by those who serve our country. Their sacrifice, though often unseen, is real, and in this instance, ultimate."

Dr Agyemang added, "We owe them more than tributes; we owe them commitment and action."

He reiterated that the late defence minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, was his senior during their time at Pope John Senior High School.

He prayed for his soul and that of those who departed with him in the tragic crash to rest in peace and expressed the hope that their sacrifices will never be in vain.

Dr Edward Omane Boamah was one of the victims who lost their lives in the tragic crash of the Z9 helicopter, which belonged to the Ghana Armed Forces.

The crash also claimed the life of Environment, Science, and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Others are: Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna; former Central Regional Minister, Samuel Sarpong and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate.

Members of the helicopter’s crew are Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu and Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah

The helicopter crashed on August 6, 2025, while en route to Obuasi to attend an illegal mining activities-related programme as part of government efforts to end galamsey.

NAAB/SEA

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