The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) says it is working in close collaboration with other security agencies to investigate the tragic helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two senior government ministers.

The military aircraft went down on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, killing Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.

The two were among a team travelling for a government assignment in Obuasi.

Also confirmed dead are Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agric Minister; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The Ghana Armed Forces crew members who died in the crash include Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Speaking to the press, GNFS Head of Public Relations, Desmond Ackah, said while the cause of the crash remains unknown, interagency investigations are underway.

“For crashes of this nature, it does not just warrant the response of the GNFS alone. A lot of factors are involved,” he explained.

“We are heavily involved—especially with rescue, extrication, and mitigating any fire hazards.”

Preliminary reports indicate the victims were on board a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter headed to Obuasi when the aircraft suddenly vanished from radar. Emergency responders were quickly deployed, but arrived to scenes of devastation.

Grim visuals captured at the site—obtained by Citi News—revealed the charred wreckage of the aircraft and the remains of those onboard, sending shockwaves across the nation.

Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who was attending an anti-galamsey event nearby, abruptly left the programme and rushed to the scene upon hearing the news.

In the wake of the tragedy, the government has ordered national flags to fly at half-mast to honour the fallen patriots. A full investigation is expected to unfold in the coming days as the nation searches for answers—and closure.