Ghana continues to mourn the tragic loss of eight lives following the devastating military helicopter crash in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve near Brofoyedru Sikaman, located in the Adansi Asokwa Municipality of the Ashanti Region. On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter, carrying a high-level government delegation, crashed en route to Obuasi, where the officials were scheduled to attend the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme.
In the aftermath of the crash, rescue teams successfully recovered the remains of all eight victims. The retrieval operation was conducted under heavy security, with military and police personnel deployed to maintain order and protect the scene. Ambulances and support vehicles were seen leaving the forest reserve, transporting the bodies to Accra for official identification and state arrangements.
Among the deceased were:
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Dr. Samuel Sarpong—Vice Chairman of the NDC
Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala – Pilot
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Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu – Co-pilot
Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah – Flight Engineer
Local residents gathered near the crash site, many visibly emotional as body bags were moved into waiting vehicles. Access to the area was restricted, with security forces ensuring the operation proceeded without interference.
The crash has plunged the nation into mourning, prompting President John Mahama to cancel all official engagements and order national flags to be flown at half-mast. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with aviation and military authorities expected to release preliminary findings in the coming days.
As the bodies of these national servants are transported with solemn dignity, Ghana reflects on the weight of their sacrifice and the fragility of life in service to country.
Source: JOY NES
