Helicopter crash: International experts arrive to aid investigation

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has confirmed the arrival of a team of international experts in the region to assist in the investigation into the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, 2025.

The accident, which occurred in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve near Brofoyedru-Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofrom District, resulted in the loss of lives of Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six others.

Dr. Amoakohene has directed the investigators to key stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of their cooperation in the probe. He expressed confidence that the collaboration between local and international teams will uncover the cause of the crash and help prevent future tragedies.

The Minister also supported the Inspector General of Police’s decision to withdraw the task force that had been enforcing environmental regulations in mining communities, particularly in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

According to the minister, the task force’s operational effectiveness was undermined by its failure to engage key local stakeholders, including Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), regional ministers, and traditional authorities, in its approach.

Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that security management must be decentralized, as community relationships are founded on local-level dialogue and collaboration.

He further noted that the new reforms will enable the government to better integrate community structures, thereby fostering a greater sense of ownership among locals in the fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation.