Academy of Forensic Sciences calls for National Forensic Policy following fatal chopper crash

The Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences (GAFS) has urged the government to urgently develop and implement a comprehensive National Forensic Policy, following the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals in the Ashanti Region.

In a press release issued on August 7 and signed by its president, Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba, the academy expressed concern over the manner in which the crash scene and the recovery of the deceased were handled.

According to the GAFS, the process lacked adherence to international best practices for disaster scene management and victim identification.

“We have observed with concern some footage relating to the management of the scene, the recovery of the bodies, and their subsequent transportation. These observations appear to lack adherence to international standards,” the statement noted.

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The academy also indicated that the incident highlights the urgent need for Ghana to strengthen its forensic capacity.

It is, therefore, proposing the immediate development of a National Forensic Policy to:

"1. Enhance crime scene management, including aviation and disaster incidents.

2. Ensure contemporary and scientific investigation practices in line with global standards.

3. Support dignified handling of human remains and culturally sensitive family liaison processes.

4. Facilitate accurate and timely mass fatality identification using DNA and other forensic techniques to provide closure for grieving families."

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According to the GAFS, they are prepared to provide technical support to investigate the crash and work with the relevant agencies to help identify the victims through forensic science.

“The Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences is prepared to provide qualified human resources to assist in properly identifying the remains, and to support a scientifically sound Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) process that meets international best practices,” the statement added.

The academy further extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, loved ones, and the entire nation in this period of national mourning.

The tragic crash occurred on Tuesday, August 6, involving a Z-9 Ghana Air Force helicopter that was en route from Accra to Obuasi.

The aircraft reportedly went down in the Dampa Range Forest Reserve, near Sikaman, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

The five officials and three crew members on board were travelling to attend the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP).

AS/AE

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