Helicopter Crash Victims' Remains Sent to South Africa for Advanced DNA Analysis
Accra, Ghana – 7 August, 2025 - Samples of the remains of the eight individuals who tragically lost their lives in Wednesday's military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region have been transported to South Africa for advanced DNA analysis.
This measure aims to facilitate proper identification of the victims, comprising two cabinet ministers, four government officials, and three Air Force personnel, ahead of state-sanctioned burials.
The decision to send the samples abroad was made due to the severely burnt condition of the bodies, necessitating more sophisticated forensic examination than what's available locally.
The DNA analysis results are expected within 6 to 12 hours, and funeral arrangements will be communicated after the completion of the DNA analysis and consultation with the respective families.
The helicopter crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, while the victims were en route to Obuasi on an official assignment. The Ghana Armed Forces has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
President Mahama has meanwhile declared three days of national mourning, beginning Thursday, August 7, to pay tribute to the fallen statesmen and service members. During this period, all national flags will be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the deceased.
In a moving display of respect and solidarity, President Mahama, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, and other government officials gathered at the Ceremonial Garden in front of the Presidency to lay flowers and light candles in memory of the eight individuals who tragically lost their lives in a recent helicopter crash.
Source - Lead News Online/Jeff Ago
