AngloGold Ashanti has expressed profound sorrow following the fatal military helicopter crash that occurred near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, claiming the lives of eight individuals, including two government ministers and senior public officials.

In a statement issued Thursday, the mining giant extended its condolences to the Government and people of Ghana and pledged its full support for national response efforts.

“AngloGold Ashanti pledges its full support for ongoing national efforts to respond to the incident,” the statement read. “We are actively working with authorities on the ground to assist in ongoing recovery operations, including providing logistical and technical support from our nearby Obuasi operations.”

The crash victims were reportedly en route to Obuasi for the launch of a new responsible mining and skills development initiative.

AngloGold Ashanti CEO Alberto Calderon said the incident had deeply shaken the company and all its employees.

“This tragedy has deeply affected all of us at AngloGold Ashanti. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those impacted by this horrific accident,” Calderon said.

“We stand ready to be of assistance wherever we are required.”

The company’s Obuasi operations, located near the crash site, are expected to continue playing a key role in supporting the authorities with resources during the ongoing recovery efforts.