In a solemn address on Wednesday afternoon, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah announced that all national flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice in honour of those who perished in the crash.

The tragedy occurred in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region and has been described by government officials as a national catastrophe.

“I have the unpleasant duty, sadly, to announce a national tragedy involving the crash of a military helicopter in the Adansi area in the Ashanti Region,” Mr. Debrah stated.

The crash resulted in the deaths of five prominent civilians and three members of the Ghana Armed Forces. Among the deceased are:

• Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, MP and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
• Muniru Mohammed Lemunade, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture
• Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress
• Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate

The military personnel who also lost their lives have been named as:

• Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala
• Flying Officer Manim Twum Ampadu
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensa

In his statement, the Chief of Staff conveyed the deep sorrow of the President and the government.

“The President and government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country,” Mr. Debrah said.

The directive to fly the national flag at half-mast reflects the gravity of the loss and the nation’s collective grief. No further details were provided on the cause of the crash, but investigations are expected to follow.

This tragic incident has plunged the nation into mourning, as Ghanaians grapple with the sudden loss of public servants who dedicated their lives to national service and development.