Ghana seeks U.S. technical assistance for transparent probe into deadly helicopter crash

The Government of Ghana has formally requested technical assistance from the United States to support a transparent and credible investigation into the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of senior public officers.

Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the request on Thursday after signing the book of condolence in Accra. He said President John Dramani Mahama had directed that independent experts be engaged to ensure the probe meets the highest international standards and leaves no room for doubt.

“The Americans have considerable expertise in these matters, and the indication we have received is that they are very much willing to assist,” Mr. Ablakwa stated. He stressed that the decision was part of the President’s insistence on a thorough process consistent with global best practice. A formal note has been sent to the U.S. government, and a response confirming readiness to help has been received. The arrival of the technical team is expected soon.

The crash involved a Chinese-made Z-9 helicopter, prompting protocols for the black box to be made available to its manufacturer for analysis. Mr. Ablakwa, also a member of the Armed Forces Council and the National Security Council, said the Chinese manufacturers had been contacted. However, the President had instructed that no steps be taken without the involvement of independent experts to avoid conflicts of interest or perceptions of a cover-up.

He assured that the investigative process would be open to public updates at every stage, subject to national security considerations. “There will be no attempt to conceal anything,” he said, adding that civil society concerns over delays stemmed from the pending arrival of the U.S. team.

Calling the incident an unprecedented tragedy in Ghana’s history, Mr. Ablakwa stressed the importance of credibility in the investigation to preserve public trust and honour the memory of the victims. He described them as “the finest public servants” and said the least the nation could do was to find the truth and learn lessons to prevent similar tragedies.

The Minister also revealed that the tragedy had reinforced the government’s resolve to launch a “relentless and ruthless campaign” against illegal mining, which he described as a broader existential threat to lives, the environment, and water resources.

Mr. Ablakwa expressed gratitude to the United States for its swift support, saying it demonstrated the strength of the bilateral partnership. “This is a difficult moment for our nation, but it is also a moment that has revealed the friends who stand with us,” he said.