The government has officially invited U.S. forensic experts to assist in the ongoing investigation into the military helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, resulting in the deaths of eight people, including two cabinet ministers. This decision follows a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, who has committed to uncovering the exact cause of this tragic incident. The crash sent shockwaves throughout the nation due to the high-profile nature of the victims involved.
The Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter was on a mission to initiate a community mining scheme aimed at combating illegal mining activities, locally referred to as ‘galamsey.’ This incident not only resulted in the loss of prominent figures but also posed a threat to a significant government initiative.
After signing a book of condolences, Foreign Affairs Minister and member of the Armed Forces Council, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the invitation extended to the American experts. He shared that a mini-cabinet meeting was held earlier on August 14 to discuss the tragedy.
“I can confirm that on the instruction of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we have formally requested the Americans to come in and assist. We all know they have considerable expertise in these matters, and the indication we have received from the Americans is that they are very willing to help,” disclosed Ablakwa in an interview with JoyNews’ Blessed Sogah.
He emphasised the need for an independent probe despite the option for the Chinese manufacturers of the helicopter to decode the black box of the aircraft and present a report. We think that it is important to bring in independent experts to ensure that the outcome of the investigations will be acceptable to all, so that there will also be confidence in the process.
“It is important that this process is done in a very thorough manner, in a manner that will be at par with best practice, the international gold standard. That is what President Mahama wants us to achieve. So I can assure you that our note has long been issued. The Americans have responded, and we are expecting the arrival of American experts soon to help us with the investigations,” he added. During the meeting, President Mahama and his appointees also resolved to honour the victims by finishing their mission.
This commitment signals that the government will not be deterred by the tragic setback. The fight against galamsey has been a central pillar of the current administration, with the late ministers, Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, at the forefront of the campaign. The decision to bring in foreign expertise reflects the gravity of the incident and the government’s determination to prevent future tragedies.
Source: David Apinga
