The Penyi Paramount Chief, Torgbiga Dadzi has consoled President Mahama and the bereaved families of victims of a tragic military helicopter crash.

He said the unfortunate incident not only threw the country into a state of shock but also robbed it of precious lives and architects of national development.

“It is with a heavy heart that I extend my heartfelt condolences to President Mahama, who we installed as Torgbi Dunenyo I of Penyi, the families of the victims, and the entire nation in this time of sorrow and grief. May we find strength and consolation in the bosom of God”, he said.

On Wednesday, 6th August, a dark cloud hovered over Ghana when news broke of a military helicopter crashing into a forest in the Ashanti Region, leading to the death of all 8 occupants, including three crew members.

Defence Minister, Edward Omane Boamah, and Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, who were both 50, were part of the 8. Others were Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; and Samuel Sarpong, the NDC's National Vice Chairman and a former Kumasi Mayor.

Torgbiga Dadzi entreated the citizenry to identify the tragic demise of the gallant 8 as a turning point to renew their commitment to helping Ghana develop.

He also requested the government to introduce stringent measures to end illegal mining (galamaey) to honour the memories of the deceased who were eager to put a stop to the canker that is destroying the country’s forest reserves slot pulsa and water bodies.

“I want to urge the government and citizens to work towards ending galamsey. This was what caused the precious lives of the 8 people who died in the crash. Let us end it now to honor their lasting memories”, he said.