Ghana is in mourning after a tragic military helicopter crash claimed the lives of eight people, including two senior government ministers. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning near the Adansi area in the Ashanti region.

At a press briefing, Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff at the Presidency, confirmed the deaths of Defence Minister Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation. The crash has sent shockwaves through the country’s political leadership.

Other victims included Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed Limuna, National Vice Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress Samuel Sarpong, and former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.

The Ghana Armed Forces also confirmed the loss of three crew members: Peter Bafemi Anala, Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Ernest Addo Mensah.

Debrah called the incident a “national tragedy,” adding that the president and government extend heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died in service to the nation. As a mark of respect, all national flags will be flown at half-mast until further notice.

The United Nations agencies in Ghana expressed solidarity and sorrow. UN Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury described the tragedy as a loss not only to Ghana but to the wider international community. “The UN family in Ghana mourns with the nation,” he stated.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash. Authorities have promised a thorough probe to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.

The country now enters a period of mourning as it grapples with the sudden loss of key national figures and servicemen.