The Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full-scale investigation into the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent individuals on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

President Mahama, who disclosed this in his first public address since the tragedy occurred, further indicated that an Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to lead the full-scale investigations.

According to the president, the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved and will play a crucial role in the investigation.

"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.

State funeral to be held on August 15 for victims of helicopter crash – President Mahama

He called on Ghanaians to put aside individual and political differences and offer collective compassion to the bereaved families.

"In this moment of national grief, let us remember that we are, above all, Ghanaians - united not just by nationality but by shared hope, shared humanity and now, shared sorrow," he said.

The investigation comes as the nation mourns the loss of the eight individuals, who were on a mission to attend a programme related to the fight against illegal mining in Obuasi.

The crash has sent shockwaves across the country, with many calling for a thorough and transparent investigation.

FLASHBACK: When a military chopper carrying Mahama, wife was forced to land at Apatrapa

The Z-9 helicopter, operated by the Ghana Air Force, went missing on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025, after departing Accra en route to Obuasi.

The aircraft later crashed in dense forest near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region, where all eight on board were confirmed dead.

The crash of the Z-9 helicopter, which belonged to the Ghana Armed Forces, claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Other victims included 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 who also perished in the crash were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Meanwhile, Ghana continues to observe a period of mourning, as the remains of the victims have been flown to South Africa for DNA analysis.

NAAB/SEA

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