The final DNA results for the six remaining victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash have been received in Ghana, bringing closure to the complex identification process.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, together with Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno and other officials, received the results at Kotoka International Airport on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
The remains of all eight victims had been sent to South Africa for forensic analysis after the crash left the bodies burnt beyond recognition. Two of the results — belonging to Dr. Murtala Mohammed and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed — were received electronically on Saturday, August 9, enabling their burial in accordance with Islamic tradition the following day.
President John Mahama, speaking at the burial, explained the delay:
“Unfortunately, the state in which the bodies were made it difficult for us to identify positively which was which and that’s why we have to go through the scientific process of identifying. Happily, that process was ended yesterday and that’s why we have to bury ahead. As I speak, the forensic results for the rest have also arrived, and we will consult with their families on funeral arrangements.”
The Chief of Staff earlier confirmed that the crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment Dr. Murtala Mohammed, former Ashanti Regional Minister Samuel Sarpong, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former MP and NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The tragedy occurred at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region while the delegation was en route to a national event.
A three-day national mourning period was declared, with a wreath-laying ceremony held on August 7–8 at the Ceremonial Gardens at the Presidency, followed by a vigil at the Forecourt of the State House on August 9.
An interdenominational state funeral for all eight victims will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Black Star Square.
