Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of the country’s Minister of Defence, Minister for Environment, and six others.

President Bio extended his sympathies to President John Dramani Mahama, the government, and the people of Ghana, describing the incident as a profound national tragedy.

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the tragic helicopter crash in Ghana that has taken the lives of the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Environment, and the entire crew. My heartfelt condolences go out to His Excellency President Mahama, and the people of Ghana during this incredibly difficult time,” President Bio stated in a Facebook post few hours after the accident on Wednesday, August 6.

He assured Ghanaians of Sierra Leone’s unwavering solidarity during this period of mourning.

“Please know that the people of Sierra Leone stand in solidarity with you as you mourn this profound loss. We are with you in your grief,” he added.

The deceased officials were on their way to launch the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), a government initiative aimed at tackling illegal mining, when the fatal crash occurred.

Ghana has since declared a period of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast in honour of the departed.

The eight who died

1. Dr Edward Omane Boamah - Minister for Defence
2. ⁠Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed - Minister for Environment
3. ⁠Alhaji Muniru Mohammed - Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
4. ⁠Dr Samuel Sarpong - Vice Chairman, NDC
5. ⁠Mr Samuel Aboagye - Former Parliamentary candidate
6. ⁠Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala
7. ⁠Flying Officer Twum Ampadu
8. ⁠Sergeant Ernest Addo