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We come together not as divided factions but as one family- Prez Mahama

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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President John Dramani Mahama

The glow of candles lit up the Forecourt of the State House on Friday night as President John Mahama urged Ghanaians to rise above grief and embrace unity, following the military helicopter crash that killed eight people at Adansi Akrofuom on August 6.

Addressing dignitaries including Members of Parliament, senior military officers, and civil servants, President Mahama urged the nation to channel its grief into renewed commitment to unity and development.

He described the victims as more than just names in news reports “They were dedicated public servants, united by their commitment to Ghana’s success.”

The former president paid glowing tribute to the dead, including Flight Officer Chumam Pedu, Squadron Leader Peter Anala, and Dr Ibrahim Murtala, MP for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.

Their service, he said, touched lives across the country and should inspire Ghanaians to build the nation they envisioned—“a nation of justice, opportunity, and prosperity for all.”

Mahama warned against blame and division, urging a focus on truth, prevention, and resilience. He also drew a parallel to another tragedy—the recent accident that claimed the lives of 15 young church members—emphasising the recurring challenges facing the nation and the courage needed to overcome them.

“As we mourn, let us commit ourselves to healing and rebuilding,” he said. “Let their memories inspire us to act with courage, innovation, and shared purpose.”

With the official mourning period ending, Mahama announced that the burial of the crash victims would begin in the coming days, alongside support for the bereaved families.

CDD-Ghana Extends Condolences Following Fatal Helicopter Crash

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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CDD-Ghana

The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the eight individuals who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

Among the victims were two high-ranking government officials: the Minister of Defense, Dr. Omane Boamah, and the Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Murtala Mohammed.

The ill-fated helicopter was reportedly en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, where the officials were scheduled to launch a new government initiative aimed at combating illegal mining—an issue that has plagued Ghana’s environment and undermined lawful economic activity for years.

CDD-Ghana expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the deceased as “dedicated and distinguished members” of government and public service.

The organization extended its sympathies not only to the bereaved families, but also to the President and Government of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“This is a national tragedy,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, and with the entire nation during this time of mourning.”

In its statement, CDD-Ghana also called for compassion and respect during this difficult period, urging the public and media to honor the dignity of the deceased and the privacy of their loved ones.

The organization voiced support for a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability.

“The passing of these officials, who died in service to the nation, should strengthen our resolve to intensify the fight against illegal mining,” the statement concluded.

As the country grapples with this painful loss, tributes continue to pour in from across the political and civil spectrum, highlighting the enduring contributions of the deceased to national development and democratic governance.

GPHA Flags Fly at Half-Mast in Honour of Military Crash Victims

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has joined the rest of the nation in mourning the tragic loss of eight lives—including two Ministers of State—who perished in the military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, near Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Authority expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the Presidency, the Ghana Armed Forces, the affected Ministries, and the bereaved families, describing the incident as a painful national tragedy.

“The Port Authority stands in solemn solidarity with the Presidency, the affected Ministries, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the bereaved families as the country comes to terms with this painful tragedy,” the statement read.

Flags at Half-Mast Across All GPHA Installations

As a mark of respect for the departed, GPHA announced that all national flags across its installations will fly at half-mast.

“In honour of their devoted service to the country, we are flying the national flag at half-mast across all our installations,” the Authority stated.

The statement concluded with a heartfelt tribute:

“May their souls rest in perfect peace, and may their families be comforted—today and always.”

The GPHA’s gesture adds to the growing wave of institutional tributes pouring in across the country as Ghana begins a three-day national mourning period declared by the Jubilee House.

2 Cops Arrested For Stealing 16 Assault Rifles … From Police Counter Terrorism Armoury; Appear In Court

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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A CZ assault riffle

The Accra Circuit Court 10, presided over by Her Honour Justice Evelyn Asamoah, has remanded two police officers into custody for their alleged involvement in the theft of 16 CZ Assault Rifles from the armoury of the Ghana Police Service.

Lance Corporal William Atia Asitanga, aged 32, and Lance Corporal Sulemana Zanya Abdul-Rahman, aged 27, appeared before the court on charges of stealing and abetment to steal respectively.

The two officers have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to the prosecution, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Nyamekye, the alleged offence occurred in March 2024 at the National Counter Terrorism Department in Accra, where Lance Corporal Asitanga was stationed as an Armourer, responsible for managing the department’s arms and ammunition.

An internal audit conducted during that period uncovered the disappearance of 16 CZ Assault Rifles from the department’s armoury.

Lance Corporal Asitanga, who had sole responsibility for the weapons, was unable to account for them, prompting an immediate investigation.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Asitanga had allegedly misappropriated the weapons. Further probing led to the arrest of his colleague, Lance Corporal Abdul-Rahman, stationed at Asiwa, Bekwai District in the Ashanti Region, who is alleged to have aided and abetted the theft.

The court has ordered that the accused persons be remanded into police custody while investigations continue.

They are scheduled to reappear before the court on a later date to be set by the prosecution.

The prosecutor told the court that both accused officers are currently assisting in ongoing investigations.

The case has been adjourned to August 20, 2025.

Jubilee House Holds Wreath-Laying Ceremony For Victims Of Military Helicopter Crash

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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President Mahama laying wreath for victims of Military Helicopter crash

In a solemn ceremony held at the Ceremonial Gardens of Jubilee House on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the Presidency led the nation in paying tribute to the eight fallen individuals who lost their lives in Wednesday’s tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

The event marked the beginning of a three-day national mourning period declared by the government to honour the memory of the deceased, which includes two high-ranking government officials – Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – alongside senior military officers and party leaders.

Mahama and Veep at the wreath laying ceremony yesterday

President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, members of the Council of State, bereaved families, security personnel and citizens were present to lay wreaths and express collective grief.

The mourning period will continue through Saturday, August 9, 2025 and will conclude with an “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” at the Forecourt of the State House. State funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.

The eight victims were en route to Obuasi on official duty when their Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crashed.

The deceased include; Dr. Omane Boamah, Dr. Murtala Mohammed – who also served as MP for Tamale Central – Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; NDC National Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong and former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.

Also killed were three Air Force personnel: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

In response to the loss of two cabinet ministers, President Mahama has made interim appointments to ensure continuity in governance.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson will serve concurrently as Minister for Defence, while Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah has been tasked with overseeing the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology.

National flags continue to fly at half-mast across the country. The Ghana Armed Forces, in collaboration with relevant state agencies, has launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash.

President Mahama is expected to lead a national tribute in the coming days, as preparations begin for official state funerals for the deceased.

Danish Children’s Fund Hands Over Dining Hall to Ayalolo Cluster of Schools

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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The dinning hall being unveiled

The Danish Children’s Fund, in partnership with the Seventh-Day Adventist School, Hansen Road, has commissioned and handed over a newly constructed dining shed to the Ayalolo Cluster of Schools in the Accra Metropolis.

The facility, designed to support the School Feeding Programme, was formally presented to the Accra Metropolitan Education Directorate at a brief ceremony held on the school premises.

It aims to provide a safe and hygienic space for pupils to have their meals, improving both sanitation and order during dining hours.

Receiving the facility on behalf of the Directorate, the Accra Metropolitan Director of Education, Madam Justine Ivy Apawu, expressed deep appreciation to the sponsors for what she described as a timely and much-needed intervention.

“This structure will significantly enhance the welfare of our pupils. Proper nutrition and a decent place to eat contribute directly to academic performance,” she said.

Madam Apawu was accompanied by the School Improvement Support Officer (SISO) for Ayalolo Circuit 14, Madam FideliaAkuaNyarkoSarfo.

The Headteacher of Akoto Lamptey Basic School, Madam Elizabeth Acheampong, also thanked the donors, noting that the dining shed would greatly strengthen the implementation of the School Feeding Programme and improve the overall learning environment.

Headmaster of the Seventh-Day Adventist School, Mr. Henry Permington Quaye, explained that the facility would not only offer shelter during meals but also promote discipline and better hygiene practices among pupils.

School authorities have pledged to ensure the structure is well maintained to serve current and future learners in the cluster.

Adansihene: Don’t politicise the Helicopter Crash

By
admin
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Adansihene addressing the meeting

The Adansi Traditional Council, presided over by Opagyakotwere Bonsra Afiriyie II, Adansihene, yesterday conveyed a special meeting of chiefs at the Bonsra Afiriyie Palace at Fomena, to deliberate on the unfortunate helicopter crash that claimed eight souls at Sikaman Brofoyedru, near Obuasi, in the Adansi enclave.

A ram being slaughtered to avert recurrence of the tragedy

The Omanheneurged Ghanaians not to politicise the Helicopter Crash, but rather see it as a National disaster that has befallen the entire country.

He stated that the victims were on a national assignment and, for that matter, all should join in consoling their families.

On behalf of the entire Adansiman, Opagyakotwere Bonsra Afiriyie II expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased.

He said the demise of the eight people is a big blow to the president, NDC and entire Ghanaians.

The meeting was climaxed with special rites to ask the gods to prevent any such incident from happening again anywhere in the country.

From Frederick Danso Abeam, Adansi Fomena

2 youngsters allegedly defraud Bishop Osei Bonsu of GH¢2.5M

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court

Two individuals, Michael Arthur, 22, and Martha Agblega, 25, together with their accomplices currently at large, have been dragged before the Circuit Court 6 in Accra for allegedly defrauding Bishop Joseph Osei Bonsu of GH¢2.5 million through a sophisticated social media scam.

The accused, Michael Arthur, unemployed, and Agblega, a trader are facing charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and defrauding by false pretences, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 131 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

No plea was taken when they appeared before His Honour Kwabena Kodua Obiri-Yeboah on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

The court has remanded them into police custody to reappear on August 20, 2025.

According to the prosecution, led by DSP Emmanuel Nyamekye, the accused persons operated as part of an online fraud syndicate using social media platforms, particularly Facebook, to lure unsuspecting victims.

In 2023, Michael Arthur reportedly created a fake Facebook account under the name “Nana Ama”, presenting himself as a woman. Through this profile, he initiated contact with Bishop Osei Bonsu.

Investigations revealed that Martha Agblega, impersonating the female person, during voice calls, established a rapport with the Bishop over time.

Together with their accomplices, Richard and Tanko (both currently at large), the syndicate convinced the Bishop to part with GH¢2.5 million under the pretext of securing him an acre of land.

“The accused individuals and their accomplices knowingly made false representations to the Bishop, promising to help him acquire land, and in the process fraudulently obtained the funds,” DSP Nyamekye told the court.

Police intelligence operations led to the arrest of Arthur and Agblega on July 31, 2025, from their hideout in BremaAsikuma, Central region.

Preliminary investigations indicate that parts of the defrauded funds were used to acquire vehicles and other properties for the personal use of the accused.

The case remains under investigation, with efforts underway to apprehend the remaining suspects.

The court will reconvene on August 20, 2025 for further proceedings.

Court Remands Ivorian Over GH¢308,000 Rubber Scam

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Accra Circuit Court

An Accra Circuit Court has remanded an Ivorian national, Lyi-Oufou Nikiema Sanogo, into lawful custody for allegedly defrauding a Ghanaian businesswoman of CFA 14 million, equivalent to GH¢308,000 under the pretext of supplying raw rubber from Côte d’Ivoire.

His alleged accomplice, Adjoumani Kouame Ishmael Musah, also an Ivorian, is currently at large, with the court issuing a bench warrant for his arrest.

Presiding as the relieving judge, His Honour Samuel Bright Acquah of Circuit Court 8, Accra, remanded Sanogo (A1) after he pleaded not guilty to two counts of abetment of crime and defrauding by false pretences contrary to the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

The Fraud

According to the prosecution, led by Fusaine Ayoba, the incident began on July 9, 2025 when the complainant and a witness, Fred Nana Paralon, contacted Musah about procuring raw rubber from Côte d’Ivoire.

Musah claimed to have reliable connections with suppliers and arranged a meeting in Abengourou, Côte d’Ivoire.

Sanogo (A1) was introduced as the transporter. He drove the complainant and witness to a hotel and the following day, Musah (A2) collected funds from the complainant, under the guise of purchasing packaging materials for the rubber.

On July 15, 2025 Sanogo, driving a DAF XF Truck with registration number 7078HR01, met the complainant at the Mamprusi Border, near Oseikojokrom in the Western North Region of Ghana.

The truck was allegedly loaded with rubber.

However, when the witness requested to inspect the loading site, Musah cited “security reasons” and discouraged the visit.

To support the deception, the accused had sprinkled remnants of real rubber around the truck to make it appear genuine. Based on this, the complainant paid GH¢308,000 in cash to Musah.

However, upon reaching the Ghanaian side of the border, Sanogo parked the truck, and Musah was seen fleeing the scene on a motorbike.

Upon inspection by the witness, it was discovered that the contents of the truck were not rubber, but waste material.

A report was immediately filed at the Akaatiso Police Station, and the truck was impounded. The matter was escalated to National Security for investigation.Sanogo was later arrested and brought to Accra.

During interrogation, he admitted transporting the materials, but confirmed they were not rubber as claimed.

The court adjourned the case to August 13, 2025, to allow for further investigations and to await the arrest of Musah.

Meanwhile, a bench warrant has been issued for Musah’s arrest.

Let’s Honour The Fallen Heroes Not By Sharing Their Graphic Footages

By
THE CHRONICLE
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Editorial

Yesterday, we published an editorial reflecting on one of the darkest days in our recent history, the tragic helicopter crash on August 6, 2025 in the Adansi Akrofuom District. It claimed the lives of two respected ministers, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, alongside senior military personnel. These individuals were en route to Obuasi, committed to tackling the menace of illegal mining, when their mission was cut short by an unspeakable tragedy.

We paid tribute to their lives and the roles they played in shaping a better Ghana. Dr. Omane Boamah, the young medical doctor-turned-politician with presidential potential and Dr. Murtala Mohammed, the eloquent statesman and scholar. We called on Ghanaians to reflect deeply on the cost of illegal mining and the human sacrifices being made in our fight against it.

Today, however, we are compelled to address a growing concern that undermines the solemnity of this national tragedy the widespread circulation of gruesome and disrespectful videos from the crash scene on social media.

Barely hours after the crash, were various social media platforms flooded with unverified and graphic footage, allegedly showing the wreckage, some remains for the deceased individuals and other scenes from the tragedy. These videos, some taken by bystanders, are not only disturbing but utterly disrespectful to the deceased, their families and the institutions they served.

At a time when families are struggling to come to terms with an unthinkable loss, when a nation is draped in grief and when public discourse should be centered on unity and healing, what we have instead witnessed is a reckless appetite for virality and sensationalism.

The Chronicle strongly condemns the sharing, reposting and distribution of any form of video content related to this horrific crash. We are deeply concerned about how quickly such sensitive material was disseminated, with no regard for the dignity of the dead or the emotional well-being of their families.

The families of the victims do not deserve to relive their trauma every time they open their phones. The Ghana Armed Forces does not deserve to have its personnel reduced to content for clicks. And the political leadership of this country should not be subject to voyeuristic scrutiny in death.

We, therefore, make a clarion call to all Ghanaians: delete any videos or images you may have downloaded related to the helicopter crash. Desist from sharing them in WhatsApp groups, reposting them on TikTok or forwarding them via Facebook or Instagram. It is not news – it is trauma.

As for us in the media, we have a special responsibility. Our duty is to inform, educate and uplift, not to exploit pain for engagement. While reporting on events of national importance, we must strike a balance between public interest and human decency.

No breaking news is worth retraumatising a grieving family. No exclusive footage is worth sacrificing the moral fabric of a grieving nation. Too many people now see traumatic events not as moments for reflection but as opportunities for content creation. We must ask ourselves: Is this who we are becoming?

If so, then we are headed down a dangerous path.

The best way to honour them is not through sharing graphic footage but through a renewed national commitment to integrity, to accountability and to peace.

Let us mourn with decency. Let us report with dignity. Let us live with empathy.

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