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Accra, 6 August 2025 — Ghana is in mourning following the tragic deaths of Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, who perished in a military helicopter crash in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region. The accident claimed the lives of eight individuals, including senior government officials and air force personnel.
The helicopter, operated by the Ghana Armed Forces, departed Accra at 09:12 local time en route to Obuasi for an official event related to anti-illegal mining efforts. It lost radar contact shortly after takeoff. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
🕊️ Victims of the Crash
In addition to the two ministers, the deceased include:
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister
- Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
- Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
🇬🇭 National Response
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah described the incident as a “national tragedy” and announced that flags will fly at half-mast indefinitely in honour of the victims. President John Dramani Mahama has cancelled all official engagements and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang joined ministers of state at a press briefing held at Jubilee House, where the government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the families affected.
🔍 Context and Significance
The delegation was travelling to participate in the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), an initiative aimed at addressing illegal mining practices in Ghana. The tragedy comes amid heightened regional security concerns, particularly along Ghana’s northern border with Burkina Faso.
Dr Boamah, a medical doctor and former Communications Minister, had recently taken up the defence portfolio. Dr Muhammed was leading environmental and technological initiatives under the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.
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