The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has expressed profound grief over the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight officials, comprising two ministers, military officers, and other government officials.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, the Ga Mantse described the tragedy as a “heartbreaking moment” not only for the affected families but for the entire nation.

He noted that the sorrow has been deeply felt at the Ga Mantse Palace, by the Ga Traditional Council, and across all communities within the Ga State.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, members of his cabinet, the armed forces, and the grieving families. We stand with you in this moment of national sorrow,” he stated.

He emphasised the significance of the lives lost, recognising their dedication to public service, saying, “To lose such dedicated public servants in the course of duty is a blow to us all. We mourn with the nation, but we also take strength in the values they stood for: service, sacrifice, and commitment to Ghana.”

Calling for national unity, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II urged Ghanaians to honour the memory of the departed not just with words, but through continued commitment to the ideals they upheld.

“May their families be comforted. May our nation find peace in the face of this tragedy. And may the souls of all the departed rest in perfect peace,” he concluded.

The high-ranking officials were aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter en route to Obuasi on a national assignment when the aircraft lost contact with radar.

The victims of the tragic crash are:

• Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
• Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment
• Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
• Mr Samuel Aboagye, Former Parliamentary Candidate
• Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala
• Flying Officer Twum Ampadu
• Sergeant Ernest Addo

The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, announced the tragic news at a press conference and directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the victims.