Efforts to investigate Wednesday’s fatal military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District are still underway, with Ghana Armed Forces personnel and aviation experts combing the Dampia Range Forest Reserve for remaining wreckage.
The crash, which occurred in the Brofoyeduru area, claimed eight lives, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and other key government and military officials. The Z-9 aircraft was en route from Accra to Obuasi when it went down.
President John Mahama, in a national address, confirmed that investigators had recovered the helicopter’s “Black Box” — a crucial flight recorder containing cockpit audio that could shed light on what caused the crash.
Meanwhile, some local farmers say the investigation has cut them off from their livelihoods. Farmlands near the crash site have been cordoned off, and residents say they are now forced to buy food from shops. “If they allow us into the farms, we will be able to harvest our foodstuff,” a resident told JoyNews.
Akrofrom MP Joseph Azumah revealed that a local had picked up a watch from the scene and voluntarily handed it over to the authorities. He praised the gesture and encouraged the community to continue cooperating with investigators.
The deceased also include Alhaji Muniru Mohammed (Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator), Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
