Koforidua: Zijin Golden Ridge Limited has extended condolences to Ghana's government and families following a military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives on August 6. The mining company expressed its deepest sympathies to the Government and people of Ghana. 'Our profound commiserations to the families of our departed brothers,' the company said in a statement issued and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Koforidua.
According to Ghana News Agency, 'This is a deeply sad moment, and I wish all the families, friends and close relations of the departed, our deepest sympathies,' Leon Zhang, CEO of Zijin Golden Ridge Limited said. Among the deceased were Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flight Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah were also among those who perished in the crash. The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that the helicopter departed Accra at 0912 hours and went off radar shortly after takeoff.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, led by the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) in collaboration with the Armed Forces and international aviation partners. President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast across government institutions.
Tributes have been pouring in from political, civil, and diplomatic circles, with institutions and individuals calling for national unity and ethical media coverage in honour of the victims. IMANI Africa president Mr. Franklin Cudjoe said in a statement; 'These individuals devoted their lives to public service, and their loss leaves a deep wound in the soul of our nation. May their legacies guide us toward integrity, courage, and peace.'
Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, which recently acquired the Akyem Gold Mine from Newmont, has been active in promoting sustainable mining practices and community engagement. The company's leadership reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ghana during this period of national grief.
