Our helicopters not missing – Ghana Gas

The Ghana National Gas Company has categorically denied media reports that four helicopters procured by the previous administration to provide surveillance at the Gas Processing Plant at Atuabo in the Western Region are missing.

The company has said those media reports indicating that the helicopters are missing are erroneous and must be disregarded.

A statement released by Ghana Gas on Wednesday May 24 stated: “The management of Ghana Gas wishes to respond to an allegation circulating in the media regarding the whereabouts of the helicopters procured to provide surveillance services to the oil and gas installations in the Western Region.

“The Company wishes to make it known to all stakeholders and the public that on Wednesday, 23rd September 2015, then President, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, commissioned the four Z-9 EH helicopters at the Air Force Station at Burma Camp.

“The helicopters were to ensure adequate security surveillance of the nation’s oil and gas enclave in the Western Region. Four helicopters in total, not seven as reported by some media outlets, were acquired. The said helicopters were procured from China National Aero Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC). The contract to that effect was signed on 21st December, 2017. The helicopters are currently stationed at the Air Force Headquarters at Burma Camp.

“Ghana Gas does not have the expertise and hangars to operate and maintain the helicopters. The Ghana Air Force, however, possesses such facilities. Ghana Gas, therefore, mandated the Ghana Air Force to operate and maintain them on its behalf. The helicopters are in good working condition and not “broken down” as erroneously reported. It is worth noting that there is a helipad at the Atuabo Main Camp.”