AS3M ABA GHANA-National Tragedy: Defence Minister Dr. Omane Boamah, Environment Minister & 6 Others Killed in Fiery Military Helicopter Crash at Obuasi

AS3M ABA GHANA-National Tragedy: Defence Minister Dr. Omane Boamah, Environment Minister & 6 Others Killed in Fiery Military Helicopter Crash at Obuasi

Obuasi, Ashanti Region | Wednesday, August 6, 2025-
Ghana has been plunged into national mourning following the devastating death of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six other military and government officials in a military helicopter crash in the Amankyem Forest near Obuasi.

According to official government sources, the Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 military helicopter was en route from Accra to the northern part of the country when it lost radar contact around midday and vanished over the Adansi Akrofuom District. Hours later, a joint military-police search operation located the charred wreckage deep in the forest, there were no survivors.

Aircraft: Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 military helicopter

Crash Site: Amankyem Forest, near Obuasi

Fatalities: All 8 onboard confirmed dead (3 crew, 5 passengers)

Cause: Under investigation, preliminary reports suggest possible technical failure

Lives Lost in the Line of Duty:

Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, aged 46, recently appointed as Ghana’s Minister of Defence in February 2025, was a respected statesman, medical doctor, and communications strategist. His commitment to peacekeeping, military reform, and national security earned him widespread acclaim.

Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science & Technology, was known for his strong environmental advocacy and grassroots leadership.

Names of the remaining victims have not yet been officially released pending family notification.

President John Dramani Mahama, in a televised national address, described the tragedy as “a dark day in Ghana’s history” and declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast.

“We have lost patriots, leaders, and friends. This is not only a loss to their families, but to the soul of our Republic.”

Jointly Investigation team launched

The Ghana Armed Forces and Ministry of Transport have jointly launched an urgent investigation into the cause of the crash. Aviation experts are expected to analyze the black box, maintenance records, and communications logs.

Public Reaction

Across the country, Ghanaians have gathered in towns and villages, churches and mosques, lighting candles and holding vigils.

The government has promised regular updates as investigations proceed. Funeral arrangements for the ministers are expected to be announced soon.

Source: Justice Baffour,CEO//www.dailywatchgh.com