Ghana is in mourning after a military helicopter crash claimed eight lives, including two cabinet ministers. The crash occurred in the forested Adansi region as the delegation traveled for a government mission in Obuasi.
This piece explores the identities of the deceased, their service to the nation, and the purpose of their ill-fated journey. In this detailed article, we break down who the victims were, their backgrounds, and what led to this national tragedy.
According to DebrichGroup.com sources, the aircraft was on a mission tied to illegal mining enforcement.
In this detailed article, we break down who the victims were, their backgrounds, and what led to this national tragedy.
Ghana Helicopter Crash Kills 8 People, Crash Overview
On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, a Ghana Armed Forces Z‑9 military helicopter departed from Accra heading toward Obuasi, in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, where officials were scheduled to attend a public event related to environmental and security concerns. Around 9:12 AM, radar contact was lost. The wreckage was later found in the Adansi Akrofuom District, in a forested area. All eight people on board—five passengers and three crew—were killed.
Biography of the Eight Fatalities
1. Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah
- Role: Minister for Defence (Feb–Aug 2025)
- Background: Medical doctor by training; served previously as Minister for Communications, Deputy Minister of Sport and Youth, and spokesperson under President John Mahama. Studied at LSE, University of Ghana Medical School, and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.
- Mission: En route to Obuasi for a government public event on anti‑illegal mining and environmental partnerships.
- Crash site: Adansi District, Ashanti Region
2. Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed
- Role: Minister for Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation (from Feb 2025); MP for Tamale Central (2021–2025).
- Background: Born 14 Dec 1974; developed a career as a development planner and politician; also served as Deputy Minister of Trade & Industry (2014–2017) and Deputy Minister for Information & Media Relations (2013–2014). Married with three children.
- Mission: Traveling to Obuasi for a scheduled environmental initiative event.
- Crash location: Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region
3. Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna
- Role: Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Background: Senior security official charged with coordinating national threats and advising the presidency.
- Mission: Part of the official delegation traveling to Obuasi for related public events.
- Crash site: Same flight path in Ashanti, crash in Adansi region.
4. Dr. Samuel Sarpong
- Role: Vice‑Chair of ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) party
- Background: Prominent party official; influential in national political organization.
- Mission: Representing NDC at the Obuasi event.
- Crash: Died when helicopter crashed in Adansi area.
5. Mr. Samuel Aboagye
- Role: Former Parliamentary Candidate (NDC)
- Background: Local political figure and party campaigner.
- Mission: Part of the delegation to Obuasi for political and environmental outreach.
- Crash: Fatality at Adansi site, Ashanti region
6. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
- Role: Pilot of the Ghana Air Force Z‑9 helicopter
- Background: Senior air force officer, experienced in transport and medevac missions.
- Mission: Captain in command of the flight from Accra to Obuasi.
- Crash: Died alongside crew in the crash near Adansi.
7. Flying Officer Manin Twum‑Ampadu
- Role: Co‑pilot (Flight officer) for the mission
- Background: Qualified Ghana Air Force flight officer, with service postings including medevac support.
- Mission: Second-in-command during the official trip to Obuasi.
- Crash: Perished in the Adansi crash zone
8. Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
- Role: Aircrew member (Sergeant)
- Background: Enlisted air force personnel responsible for in-flight operations.
- Mission: Supporting the aircraft’s flight operations to Obuasi.
- Crash: Also died when the helicopter went down in Adansi
Broader Context & Aftermath
The mission aimed at promoting government interventions to combat illegal mining (“galamsey”), environmental damage, and reinforce security in Obuasi, a major gold‑mining hub. This crash occurred amid mounting pressure on the government to address environmental and security concerns.
President John Dramani Mahama declared the event a “national tragedy”, ordered flags at half-mast, and suspended official functions pending investigations. Chief of Staff Julius Debrah announced it during a press conference, noting that all eight had died “in service to the country.” Nobody survived.
DebrichGroup.com confirmed that, an investigation is ongoing into potential mechanical failure, pilot error, or weather-related causes. Meanwhile, the Ghana Air Force temporarily grounded all Z‑9 helicopters pending inspection.
This devastating incident has left significant leadership gaps as Ghana mourns senior ministers and key officials. Their planned mission underscored national priorities in environmental and security policy. Continued investigation aims to bring clarity and ensure accountability.
