On Wednesday, a military Z9 helicopter, en route from Accra to Obuasi for an event regarding illegal mining, tragically went down in the Ashanti region, resulting in the deaths of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, among others. President Mahama expressed profound sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the personal connections he held with the victims.
As Ghana grapples with the tragedy, Mahama has announced a full investigation, confirming that flight recorders have been recovered and analyzed. Initial reports highlight adverse weather conditions and fog in the area during the flight, with eyewitness accounts describing the aircraft flying at low altitude prior to the crash, which is considered the deadliest incident involving Ghana’s Air Force helicopters in recent years.
A state funeral for the victims is planned for August 15, showing the nation's solidarity during this period of mourning. President Mahama has suspended all public engagements and lowered flags across the country to half-mast. Among the deceased are also notable figures such as the Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress party.
As investigations continue, the nation remains in shock, reflecting on the incomplete leadership and ongoing struggles against illegal mining, a cause significantly championed by the late Minister Muhammed. The helicopter accident has stirred poignant conversations about the safety of air travel in the region and the ongoing threat of jihadist activities that the late Defence Minister was working to combat.
With these developments, Ghana faces a challenging time as it honors those lost while pursuing the truth behind this tragic accident.
As Ghana grapples with the tragedy, Mahama has announced a full investigation, confirming that flight recorders have been recovered and analyzed. Initial reports highlight adverse weather conditions and fog in the area during the flight, with eyewitness accounts describing the aircraft flying at low altitude prior to the crash, which is considered the deadliest incident involving Ghana’s Air Force helicopters in recent years.
A state funeral for the victims is planned for August 15, showing the nation's solidarity during this period of mourning. President Mahama has suspended all public engagements and lowered flags across the country to half-mast. Among the deceased are also notable figures such as the Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress party.
As investigations continue, the nation remains in shock, reflecting on the incomplete leadership and ongoing struggles against illegal mining, a cause significantly championed by the late Minister Muhammed. The helicopter accident has stirred poignant conversations about the safety of air travel in the region and the ongoing threat of jihadist activities that the late Defence Minister was working to combat.
With these developments, Ghana faces a challenging time as it honors those lost while pursuing the truth behind this tragic accident.
