Ghana Launches 30-Day Probe into Deadly Z-9 Helicopter Crash with US Support

The Ministry of Defence has inaugurated a 30-day investigation into the August 6, 2025, Z-9 helicopter crash that killed eight officials, including two serving Cabinet ministers.

A statement signed by Acting Minister of Defence, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced the formation of a board led by National Security Coordinator Abdul-Osman Razak. Members are drawn from the Ghana Air Force and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau.

The United States will provide technical assistance, with experts from the US Air Force expected in the country soon. Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed that the request for American expertise was made on the instructions of President John Dramani Mahama.

“We believe involving independent experts will guarantee credibility and confidence in the investigation process,” Mr. Ablakwa noted after signing a condolence book for the victims.

The Defence Ministry indicated that the board may invite other local and international experts to support its work. A preliminary team that secured the crash site and collected evidence is expected to hand over its findings to the new committee for a more comprehensive probe.

The Z-9 helicopter, operated by the Ghana Air Force, went off radar minutes after takeoff from Accra before crashing at Adansi-Brofoyedu in the Ashanti Region. The aircraft was on a national assignment in Obuasi.

Victims of the crash included:

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister

Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology

Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former Ashanti Regional Minister

Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Coordinator of NADMO

Wing Commander Peter Bafemi Anala (pilot)

Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu (co-pilot)

Flight Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah (crew member)

The Defence Ministry has assured the public of a thorough and transparent inquiry to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.