Public Safety Bureau Questions GAF’s Role in Military Helicopter Crash Investigation

 

The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has expressed serious concerns over the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) leading the investigation into the fatal military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. According to the BPS, this approach could compromise the credibility and transparency of the inquiry.

In a statement issued on Saturday, August 9, Dr. Nana Yaw Akwadaa, Executive Director of the BPS, warned that the GAF’s position as the operator of the aircraft makes it an interested party, thereby creating a conflict of interest in any investigation it leads.

“We do not believe the Ghana Armed Forces should lead this investigation. Given their direct involvement as operators of the downed helicopter, they cannot be seen as neutral. Transparency and public trust are essential, especially considering the level of public anxiety and the many unanswered questions surrounding the incident,” Dr. Akwadaa stated.

The tragic crash occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region and claimed nine lives, including prominent government officials:

• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
• Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
• Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
• Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
• Peter Bafemi Anala, Squadron Leader
• Manin Twum-Ampadu, Flying Officer
• Ernest Addo Mensah, Sergeant

The helicopter, identified as a GAF Z-9, was en route from Accra to Obuasi when it lost contact and went off radar. The exact cause of the crash remains unknown.

To ensure the integrity of the investigation, Dr. Akwadaa called for the formation of an independent investigative body comprising experts from civil aviation safety authorities and oversight institutions.

“The public deserves answers that are thorough, impartial, and based on facts. An independent inquiry is the only way to achieve that,” he added.

Meanwhile, the state funeral for the victims is scheduled for Friday, August 15, 2025.

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Source: Citinewsroom.com