I almost shut down Ghana’s internet over horrific helicopter crash videos – Sam George

I almost shut down Ghana’s internet over horrific helicopter crash videos – Sam George

Spread the love

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George has revealed that he nearly ordered a nationwide internet shutdown following the tragic helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr. George called the moment a “mixed experience” and commended telecom companies for their prompt response during the crisis.

He said His concern stemmed from the rapid circulation of graphic and disturbing videos on social media, especially WhatsApp, which he feared could traumatize the victims’ families before official communication had been made.

However, he noted that shutting down the internet would have had wider consequences.

“That was one option — to shut down, make a public announcement and say we’re turning off the internet for a period to allow for calm. But that also came with its own consequences. Many of you stream the news, and cutting access could create a ripple effect worse than what we were trying to fix. So, we left it intact.”

Instead, Mr George opted for a coordinated, behind-the-scenes effort involving both local and international stakeholders

“I immediately reached out to Meta and activated a POC we had there to see what they could do, since they control WhatsApp. I also made personal calls to senior vice presidents I knew at Meta. They assured me they would look into the matter.”

His focus then shifted to local operators, who responded swiftly.

“I reached out to the NCA and asked them to contact all the CEOs. I personally called the three CEOs and said they should work with the NCA. We sent out about 30 million text messages within two hours, and the telecom companies bore the cost,” he said.

Mr George stressed that all restraint messages sent from the Ministry were fully funded by the telecom operators.

“All those messages asking people to exercise restraint were paid for by the telecom companies themselves as part of working with us. The NCA coordinated the nationwide blast,” he concluded.

tiya
Check out EM SEYI new banger 10 cedis Click & watch, like and subscribe
Back to top button