Two Ghanaian Ministers, 6 Others Die in Military Helicopter Crash

Two Ghanaian cabinet ministers are among eight people who died when a military helicopter crashed in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday morning.

Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, 50, were confirmed dead by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, who described the crash as “a national tragedy.”

The helicopter, carrying three crew members and five passengers, departed Accra at 09:12 GMT bound for the gold‑mining town of Obuasi to attend a national event. According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the aircraft went off radar before crashing in the central region.

Other high‑profile victims include Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Samuel Sarpong, Vice‑Chairman of the governing NDC, and three Air Force crew: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum‑Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Mr. Debrah, speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and ordered national flags to fly at half‑mast.

“This is a painful day for Ghana. We have lost patriots who served our country with dedication and courage,” Debrah said.

The cause of the crash has not yet been determined, and an investigation is underway.