The Tobinco Group of Companies has extended its deepest condolences to the nation following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent Ghanaians on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The company described the death of the eight individuals, including the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, as a “colossal loss to the entire country”.

In a statement, the Group expressed shock and sorrow over what it called a “chilling and devastating incident”, noting that the tragedy had sent waves of grief throughout its subsidiaries.

“This is an extremely unfortunate and colossal loss to the entire country, as these vibrant men who were on a national assignment held great value to the nation and its development,” the statement read.

The Executive Chairman of the Tobinco Group, Dr Nana Samuel Amo Tobbin I, expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire organisation to President John Dramani Mahama, the government, the bereaved families, and the people of Ghana.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to you in solidarity in this difficult time of national disaster. May the good Lord Himself comfort and strengthen you through this tragedy,” Nana Amo Tobbin wrote.

The entire country was thrown into mourning on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, when news broke of the fatal crash involving a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter.

The aircraft was carrying five government officials and three crew members when it went down in the Ashanti Region while en route to Obuasi for a national assignment related to the fight against illegal mining.

Those who perished in the crash include:

-Dr Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence

-Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology

-Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

-Dr Samuel Sarpong – Former Ashanti Regional Minister

-Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate

The military crew onboard were:

- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

- Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu

- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

The tragic loss has left a deep void in national leadership and security efforts, as the officials were reportedly on a critical mission aimed at curbing illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, in the Obuasi area.