Defence Minister Onboard Crashed GAF Helicopter
GAF Helicopter Crash: Top Government Officials Involved, Defence Minister Onboard
A Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter en route to Obuasi has reportedly crashed, with several high-ranking government officials and military personnel believed to have been onboard. The incident has triggered nationwide concern as rescue operations continue and officials race to confirm the status of those affected.
According to preliminary information, the Z9 helicopter was carrying eight individuals, including:
● Dr Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
● Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – MP for Tamale Central & Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
● Samuel Sarpong – Former Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
● Muniru Mohammed - Ag Dep. NATIONAL CHAIRPERSON of NDC
● Squadron leader Peter Bafemi Anala – Pilot Army Officer
● Twum Ampadu
● Samuel Aboagye
Twum Ampadu, and Samuel Aboagye were scheduled to be on the same flight but had already arrived at the event grounds in Obuasi prior to the crash.
The officials were travelling to Obuasi for a major state programme, which was expected to be attended by President John Mahama. However, the President cancelled his appearance at the last minute, a decision communicated by the Chief of Staff in an official statement issued from the Jubilee House.
The Defence Minister’s presence on the aircraft has heightened public anxiety, though no official casualty report has been released. The Ghana Armed Forces earlier confirmed that the helicopter went off radar shortly after takeoff from Accra at 09:12 GMT, with efforts still ongoing to locate the wreckage and rescue survivors.
Emergency response teams have been deployed to the suspected crash site, but visibility and access challenges are believed to be slowing operations. The cause of the crash remains unknown.
This incident is likely to spark renewed scrutiny over military flight operations and safety protocols, especially for transporting high-profile state officials. Ghanaians across the country have taken to social media expressing prayers and support for those involved.
