Ibrahim Mahama sponsors emergency forensic transfer of helicopter crash victims’ remains to South Africa

By Joylinda Laryea / August 8, 2025

Businessman Ibrahim Mahama has stepped in to sponsor the urgent transfer of remains from the recent military helicopter crash to South Africa for advanced forensic analysis. The tragic accident on August 6 in Adansi Akrofuom, Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Alhaji Murtala Mohammed, and six other government officials.

Due to the severely damaged state of the remains, Ibrahim Mahama generously offered his private jet to expedite the transfer mission. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh explained that while initial testing can be conducted locally, international confirmation is often required to ensure accuracy and provide certainty to grieving families.

The victims include:

• Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah

• Environment Minister Alhaji Murtala Mohammed

• Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed

• Dr. Samuel Sarpong

• NDC National Vice Chairman Samuel Aboagye

• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

• Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu

• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

Flags across Ghana have been ordered to fly at half-mast as the nation mourns. Preparations are underway for a state funeral to honor the fallen leaders.

The private jet departed on August 7, carrying biological samples alongside a government delegation and forensic experts from the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID). Led by the CID’s Head of Forensic Analysis, the team is expected to complete DNA testing within 6 to 12 hours upon arrival in South Africa.

A solemn prayer service was held prior to departure, attended by Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), CID Director-General, and other dignitaries.

Interior Minister Mubarak emphasized the importance of the overseas testing, stating, “We are working around the clock to conclude investigations and give families closure. This step is critical to accelerate identification and ensure dignified burials for the victims.”