The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has conveyed its deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, and colleagues of the eight distinguished officials who died in the tragic helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6.

The commission described the incident as a national tragedy, saying, "This devastating incident has cast a dark shadow over the nation. These gallant men and women were not only devoted public servants but also patriots who gave their all in service to the Republic of Ghana. Their untimely deaths represent a significant loss to the country’s governance and national security architecture."

The FWSC said it stood in solidarity with the government and people of Ghana during this period of mourning, stating, "At FWSC, we mourn alongside President John Dramani Mahama, the Ghana Armed Forces, and all affected institutions, their spouses, and family."

Paying tribute to the victims, the FWSC added, "We recognise the sacrifice of these officers and the valuable roles they played in shaping the future of our nation. Their memory will forever be etched in our collective hearts. May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may the Almighty grant strength, comfort, and healing to their families and all who are grieving this painful loss."

The high-profile victims who perished in the accident included two cabinet ministers, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah (Minister for Defence) and Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation).

Also among the deceased were Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; and Samuel Sarpong, the Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The remaining victims were the helicopter's crew members: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The group was travelling from Accra to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region to attend an event aimed at combating illegal mining, known as galamsey.

The aircraft went off radar, triggering a search-and-rescue operation that ended in tragedy.