The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has called for an independent and transparent investigation into the military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6.
The crash, which has plunged the nation into mourning, resulted in the deaths of high-profile officials, including the Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. Also on board were senior national security personnel and crew members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the BPS described the incident as a national tragedy and urged the government and the military to go beyond internal inquiries and adopt international best practices for accident investigations.
“The tragedy calls not only for empathy but for a credible, evidence-based investigation and transparent communication,” the statement said.
The Bureau is advocating for the use of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Annex 13 guidelines, which, though designed for civil aviation, represent global best practices in accident investigation.
According to the BPS, the principles of thorough analysis, impartiality, and public accountability are equally relevant in military contexts and are essential to building public trust and ensuring institutional learning.
As part of its demands, the Bureau called on authorities to release a preliminary public report within 30 days, provide regular updates on the progress of the investigation, and communicate clearly about the composition and leadership of the investigation team.
The BPS also cautioned the public against speculation, warning that premature conclusions could distort facts and undermine confidence in the investigation process.
In seeking full clarity, the Bureau requested that investigators publicly address key aspects of the crash, including the flight’s planning and purpose, the maintenance history of the aircraft, the qualifications and preparedness of the flight crew, and any communications made by the helicopter prior to the crash.
It also urged the government to outline its protocols for family support and communication in the aftermath of such tragedies.
“This is a moment that calls for national unity, truth, and action,” the statement said. “The lessons we draw from this tragedy must lead to stronger safety systems and enhanced operational accountability—both in our skies and on the ground.”
Meanwhile, the Ghana Armed Forces is expected to lead the official investigation into the crash, while tributes continue to pour in for the fallen officials.
The government has ordered all national flags to be flown at half-mast, and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Source: William Narh