Ashanti Regional Minister Confirms Recovery of Helicopter Crash Victims on Mountain Dampayaw

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, has confirmed the retrieval of the bodies of all eight victims who perished in the tragic military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

In a statement posted on social media, Dr Amoakohene revealed that the crash site was located on Mountain Dampayaw, a remote and rugged area approximately 1,000 feet above sea level. The location is two hours’ drive from Obuasi, followed by an arduous 1 hour and 30-minute trek on foot from Sikaman Bofodu.

“About 1000ft up Mountain Dampayaw, 2hrs drive from Obuasi plus 1hr 30min on foot from Sikaman Bofodu, we retrieved the 8 lifeless compatriots,” the Minister wrote.

Dr Amoakohene and his entourage, including security personnel and emergency responders, visited the crash site to supervise recovery operations and assess the scene firsthand.

The victims, including high-profile government officials and military crew members, were aboard a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter traveling from Accra to Obuasi when it lost contact with radar and was later found burned beyond recognition in the mountainous terrain.

The deceased have been identified as:

• Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence

• Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment

• Samuel Sarpong, Former Ashanti Regional Minister

• Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

• Samuel Aboagye, Former Member of Parliament

• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

• Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu

• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

The government has since launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. President Mahama, along with various political and military leaders, has declared a period of national mourning.

The nation continues to grieve as tributes pour in from all corners of society for the fallen officials and service members.