Z-9 military aircraft went missing shortly after takeoff from Accra; wreckage found near Adansi Sikaman in Ashanti Region
A Ghana Air Force helicopter carrying eight people has crashed and burst into flames shortly after takeoff from Accra on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
According to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the aircraft—a Z-9 military utility helicopter—lost radar contact minutes into the flight and was later found in ruins near Adansi Sikaman, a town close to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region.
Footage from the crash site shows the mangled wreckage engulfed in fire. All eight individuals onboard have now been officially confirmed dead.
Flight Details and Confirmation
The helicopter departed from Accra at exactly 09:12 a.m. GMT en route to Obuasi. Onboard were three crew members and five passengers. The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed the incident in an official statement signed by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations.
Confirmed Fatalities
All eight individuals onboard have been officially confirmed dead. The following names have been released:
Full list of officials involved in the Helicopter Crash in Ghana
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
- Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Dr Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman, NDC
- Mr Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Squadron Leader Peter
- Flying Officer Twum Ampadu
- Sergeant Ernest Addo
Potential Cause Under Investigation
While the exact cause of the crash is still unknown, preliminary observations suggest that adverse weather conditions or mechanical failure may have played a role. The helicopter was last tracked over an undisclosed location before it disappeared from radar. The Z-9 model is often used by the Ghana Air Force for medical evacuations and general transport missions.
Emergency Response and Government Briefing
Emergency responders and military personnel are currently at the crash site, and the area has been secured to allow for recovery and investigation efforts. The Jubilee House is expected to hold an emergency press briefing to provide further details.
News of the crash and the confirmed loss of several high-ranking officials has sent shockwaves across the nation. Tributes are pouring in from political leaders, civil society, and the general public, with calls for a national day of mourning and a full investigation.
Key Facts Summary
Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Aircraft: Ghana Air Force Z-9 Utility Helicopter
Departure: Accra at 09:12 a.m. GMT
Destination: Obuasi, Ashanti Region
Crash Site: Near Adansi Sikaman, Ashanti Region
Total People Onboard: 8 (3 crew members, 5 passengers)
Fatalities: All 8 confirmed dead
Confirmation: Ghana Armed Forces
Spokesperson: Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin
Suspected Cause: Adverse weather or technical failure (unconfirmed)
Next Steps: Press briefing expected from Jubilee House
Developing Story
This is a developing story. More updates will be shared as investigations progress and official statements are released.
