Mr Zia Choudhury, the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator, has extended condolences to the Government of Ghana following the tragic death of eight persons in an Airforce helicopter crash on Wednesday at Adansi in the Ashanti Region.

The UN, in a press statement on Wednesday, sympatised with the families of the deceased persons, who include Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence, and Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.

The others are Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Samuel Aboagye, former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

“It is with profound sorrow that we receive the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Airforce Z9 helicopter, claiming the lives of distinguished Government of Ghana officials…,” it said.

“The United Nations family in Ghana mourns with the nation in this moment of deep grief. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and to the Government and people of Ghana, as we together face this painful loss. This tragedy is not only a national wound but also a loss felt across the international community.”

“We stand united at this time of mourning. We honour the memory of those who have passed, with hope for their lasting peace.”

Flags are flying at half-mast following the incident.

Mr. Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff at the Presidency, confirmed the tragedy at a Jubilee House briefing.

The victims were attending an anti-illegal mining event, known as the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) at Obuasi.