Ghana Police helicopters are ‘flying coffins’ — Ernest Norgbey alleges

Ernest Henry Norgbey, a member of Parliament serving on the Defence and Interior Committee, has raised serious concerns about the safety of three helicopters owned by the Ghana Police Service.

Describing the aircraft as “flying coffins,” the Ashaiman MP warned that these helicopters are unfit for operational use.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsnite program, Mr. Norgbey revealed that the helicopters were manufactured in 1976 and have remained grounded since their delivery. “The 1976 helicopters that were delivered, as we speak now, they cannot be used because they were not fit for purpose. A 1976 aircraft, that is a flying coffin,” he said, emphasizing the severe safety risks posed by these machines.

Despite initial fanfare when they were procured, the helicopters have been left idle in a hangar and have yet to see active service.

Mr. Norgbey also addressed the status of additional helicopters promised to the Ghana Police Service. In October 2021, President Akufo-Addo announced plans to supply three new helicopters by November that year, alongside officer training and hangar completion. However, these helicopters have not yet arrived.

The MP attributed the delay to Ghana’s ongoing debt restructuring, stating, “We were made to understand that was due to the debt restructuring during that period.”

Meanwhile, former Defence Minister Dominic Aduna Bingab Nitiwul has expressed sorrow over the passing of his successor, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, describing him as a dedicated and loyal leader whose loss is keenly felt across the country.

Speaking at the Defence Ministry on August 11, 2025, while signing the book of condolence, Mr. Nitiwul reflected on his long-standing relationship with Dr. Omane Boamah and praised his commitment to Ghana’s progress.

“I knew Dr. Boamah from 2003 and he was very intelligent, very affable, very sharp, somebody who knew what he was about and very passionate about this country and what we need to do to move the country forward,” he said.