Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Acting Minister of Defence, has announced that President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the Investigation Board probing the Z-9 helicopter crash to submit its report within 30 days.
In a statement issued by Dr. Ato Forson, it was disclosed that an official Investigation Board has commenced its inquiry into the recent crash of a Z-9 helicopter that resulted in the deaths of eight prominent Ghanaians.
The Board, led by the National Security Coordinator, comprises members from the Ghana Air Force and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
Aside from local expertise, the United States is providing guidance and technical assistance with visiting investigators from the U.S. Air Force. Authorities mentioned that other relevant experts and institutions, both within Ghana and abroad, may also be called upon to assist in the investigation.
Following the incident on August 6, 2025, a preliminary investigation team was swiftly put together to gather all available evidence for the Board’s use. This team is expected to present its findings to the Board today.
The Defence Ministry has confirmed that the Investigation Board has one month to finalize its investigation and present its final report.
The crash resulted in the tragic loss of eight notable Ghanaians, who have posthumously been recognized as heroes. Among the deceased are: Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the NDC, Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate, Wing Commander Peter Bafemi Anala, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Ernest Addo – all from the Ghana Air Force.
The update was contained in a statement issued by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Acting Minister for Defence.
By Philip Antoh