Businessman Ibrahim Mahama, is sponsoring the emergency transfer of remains from Wednesday’s tragic military helicopter crash to South Africa for advanced forensic testing, as Ghana continues to mourn the loss of two ministers and six other officials.

In light of the severely damaged state of the remains, Ibrahim Mahama offered his private jet for the mission. The jet departed on Thursday, August 7, 2025, carrying biological samples from the victims, along with a government delegation and forensic experts from the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

The team is led by the CID’s Head of Forensic Analysis and is expected to complete DNA testing within 6 to 12 hours of arrival. A solemn prayer session attended by the Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak, the IGP, CID Director-General, and other dignitaries was held before takeoff.

Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak told the media the decision to send the samples abroad was to accelerate identification and allow for dignified burials. “We are working around the clock to conclude investigations and give families closure,” he said.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh also explained that even when testing is done locally, international confirmation is often required. Highlighting the need for speed and certainty.

The crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in Adansi Akrofuom, Ashanti Region, claiming the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Alhaji Murtala Mohammed, and six others:

• Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Dr. Samuel Sarpong
• Samuel Aboagye, NDC National Vice Chairman
• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
• Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

Flags across the country have been ordered to fly at half-mast, as tributes continue to pour in and preparations begin for what is expected to be a state burial.