Investigation begins on Z-9 tragic helicopter crash

The Ministry of Defence has commenced a formal investigation into the Z-9 helicopter crash that killed eight senior government officials and military officers earlier this month.

In a statement issued in Accra on Monday, August 25, the Ministry said the newly constituted board had begun work to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident. The board is chaired by the National Security Coordinator, with membership drawn from the Ghana Air Force and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

The probe is also receiving international backing. The United States Air Force is providing technical advice and support to the team of investigators, while other experts, both local and international, are expected to be called upon as the inquiry progresses.

According to the Ministry, a preliminary team was dispatched to the crash site on the day of the accident to collect available evidence. Their findings have now been handed over to the new board. The Defence Ministry disclosed that the board has been given 30 days to complete its work and submit a comprehensive report.

The helicopter crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, tragically claimed the lives of eight individuals. The delegation was traveling to participate in the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), a government initiative aimed at promoting safe and sustainable mining practices.

Victims of the accident included senior government officials, military personnel, and prominent political figures. Among the victims were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, NDC Vice-Chairman Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and three military officers who were manning the aircraft.

The establishment of the investigative board marks the beginning of that process. Officials say the findings will not only clarify the immediate cause of the crash but also provide recommendations to strengthen aviation safety in the armed forces and prevent future disasters.