Ghana’s Defense, Environment Ministers Among 8 Killed in Helicopter Crash

Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed died in the crash, along with the Deputy Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress party, a top security adviser, and four crew members.

Meanwhile, the government has launched an investigation into the crash and declared three days of national mourning, during which the flag must fly at half-mast.

The military helicopter took off from the capital city, Accra, heading northwest before it crashed in Adans, leaving no survivors.

The victims' remains were retrieved on Thursday and have since been repatriated to Accra.

Credit: @DEEzy_503

The burials of Murtala and Muniru were later delayed as the government ordered a complete and independent autopsy before proceeding with the Muslim funeral rites. Muniru's burial was on Thursday.

Reports indicate that President Mahama was expected to attend the launch of the mining program, but instead sent the three high-ranking officials.

Local media indicated the aircraft was a military Z-9 helicopter, frequently used for transport and medical evacuation, and generally considered safe.

Plane accidents are uncommon in Ghana, which ranks among the highest in aviation safety on the continent.

The last incident occurred in 2014 when a helicopter crashed off the coast, killing three military personnel. In 2012, a cargo plane overran the runway in Accra, crashing into a bus and killing 11 passengers.