BREAKING NEWS: Military Helicopter Crash in Adansi Akrofuom Leaves 8 Missing

Adansi Akrofuom, Ashanti Region –

A tragic incident unfolded in Ghana’s Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, when a military helicopter belonging to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) crashed near Adansi Akrofuom, sparking a massive fire and leaving all eight people on board unaccounted for. The crash, which occurred during the late morning hours, has sent shockwaves across the country and triggered an urgent rescue and recovery operation.

Eyewitness Accounts of a Fiery Crash

According to eyewitnesses who spoke to local media, the helicopter was seen flying at a relatively low altitude before a sudden loud explosion was heard. Within seconds, the aircraft plummeted towards a wooded area on the outskirts of the community and erupted into flames upon impact.

“The noise was deafening. We saw smoke in the sky and then a ball of fire after it hit the ground. By the time we got close, the helicopter was burning beyond recognition,” said Kwaku Amponsah, a local farmer who was working nearby.

Several residents rushed to the scene, but the intense heat and thick smoke prevented any immediate rescue attempts. Video footage and photographs taken shortly after the crash show smouldering wreckage engulfed in bright orange flames, with black plumes of smoke rising into the air.

Details from the Ghana Armed Forces

In an official statement released hours after the incident, the GAF confirmed that the downed aircraft was carrying a total of eight people—three crew members and five passengers. The helicopter had departed from Accra and was en route to Obuasi when it lost contact with air traffic control.

“The aircraft was from Accra and heading for Obuasi and is currently off the radar. All efforts are being made to establish contact,” the statement said earlier in the day. By late afternoon, the GAF updated that wreckage had been located and rescue teams were on site, but no survivors had yet been found.

The identities of those on board have not been officially disclosed, pending notification of their families. Sources within the Armed Forces have indicated that the passengers may have included both military personnel and civilian officials, though this remains unconfirmed.

Cause of the Crash Still Unknown

The exact cause of the crash remains a mystery. Aviation experts note that weather conditions in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday morning were generally clear, reducing the likelihood of severe weather as a contributing factor.

However, mechanical failure, pilot error, or other operational issues have not been ruled out. The GAF has dispatched an accident investigation team, working alongside the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, to examine the crash site and recover the helicopter’s flight data and cockpit voice recorders, which could provide vital clues.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts Intensify

Emergency services, including fire and ambulance teams, were quickly deployed from Obuasi and nearby towns. By mid-afternoon, military personnel had cordoned off the area to facilitate search and recovery operations. Drones were reportedly deployed to survey the dense terrain and locate possible survivors.

“We are doing everything possible to account for the crew and passengers,” said Colonel Kofi Agyemang, who is leading the on-site response. “The fire has been largely contained, but the wreckage is severely damaged, making recovery efforts challenging.”

The crash site, situated several kilometres from the main Adansi Akrofuom township, is difficult to access due to rugged terrain and bushland, which has further complicated the operation. Volunteers from the local community have joined in, assisting with logistics and providing food and water to rescue workers.

National Shock and Concern

News of the crash has drawn expressions of shock and concern from across Ghana. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo issued a brief statement through the Ministry of Information, saying:

“I am deeply saddened by reports of a Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of all those on board, and I have instructed all relevant agencies to provide every assistance possible in the search and rescue efforts.”

Opposition leaders, civic groups, and members of the public have also taken to social media to offer prayers and call for transparency in the investigation.

Community Response in Adansi Akrofuom

Residents of Adansi Akrofuom have rallied together in an outpouring of solidarity. Local chiefs and assembly members have opened up community centres to accommodate rescue teams, while others have offered their vehicles to transport personnel and equipment.

“This is the first time something like this has happened here. We are all shocked and praying that by some miracle, survivors are found,” said Nana Kwame Bediako, a traditional leader in the area.

Background on Military Aviation in Ghana

The Ghana Armed Forces operate a small but critical fleet of helicopters for transport, reconnaissance, and humanitarian missions. These aircraft are often used for troop movements, emergency medical evacuations, and the transportation of government officials to remote areas.

While Ghana’s military aviation sector has generally maintained a good safety record, Wednesday’s crash marks one of the most serious incidents in recent years. The last major military aircraft accident in the country occurred over a decade ago, involving a transport plane, and resulted in multiple fatalities.

Next Steps in the Investigation

In the coming days, investigators will focus on recovering the helicopter’s black boxes, interviewing air traffic controllers, and reviewing maintenance records. Eyewitness testimony will also be crucial in piecing together the final moments before the crash.

A preliminary report is expected within the next two weeks, although full investigations of aviation accidents can take several months. The GAF has assured the public that findings will be made available as soon as possible.

A Nation Awaits Answers

For now, the priority remains locating the missing and providing answers to their families. As rescue teams continue their difficult work through the night, the mood across Ghana is one of anxious hope mixed with sorrow.

“We are holding on to hope,” said a relative of one of the passengers. “Until we hear otherwise, we believe our loved ones can be found.”

The Ghana Armed Forces have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow official channels to share verified information. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.

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