Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, has conveyed his profound sorrow and disbelief following a helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people, including Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.

The crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti region while the Ghana Armed Forces Z‑9 helicopter was en route to Obuasi, with emergency response teams now investigating the cause.

The confirmed 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 deceased.

• Read also: Defence Minister, Environment Minister, 6 others confirmed dead in military helicopter crash

He also extended the government’s condolences to the bereaved families and the nation.

In a post on Facebook, Mr Gyamfi questioned how such a “monumental tragedy” could have occurred, expressing deep confusion and heartbreak.

“How could this monumental tragedy have happened? Why did it happen? What is this? How can we make sense of this? Completely shattered,” he wrote.

Reflecting on the fragility of life, Mr Gyamfi cited a prayerful appeal for wisdom in the face of loss: “Our life in this world is but a walking shadow. So teach us to number our days, Lord, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”

Paying tribute to the deceased, he referred to them as “fallen patriots,” wishing them eternal rest “in the bosom of your maker,” and expressed hope for a reunion in the afterlife.

“Fare thee well, our fallen patriots. Rest in peace in the bosom of your maker. May we surely meet again at the Lord’s feet,” he added.