President Mahama Grieves Loss of Senior Officials and Aircrew in Tragic Helicopter Crash
Ghana is in mourning following a tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region that has claimed the lives of five high-profile political figures and three Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) crew members.
Announcing the tragedy on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, described the incident as a “national tragedy”.
He confirmed the crash occurred on the morning of 6 August 2025, and extended the government’s condolences to the affected families.
“On behalf of the President of the Republic, HE John Dramani Mahama, the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and the Government of Ghana, I have the unpleasant duty, sadly, to announce a national tragedy,” Mr Debrah said in a statement.
Crew Members Identified
The ill-fated helicopter was crewed by Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, all of whom perished in the line of duty.
Their bravery and service have been widely praised, with tributes pouring in from across the country and the armed forces.
Political Figures on Board
The crash also claimed the lives of several prominent members of government and the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC):
Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture
Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC
Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East
The Chief of Staff further announced that all national flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice, as the country enters a period of mourning.
“The President and Government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and servicemen who died in service to the country,” the statement read.
