Ghana is observing three days of national mourning following a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people, including two government ministers. The government has ordered flags to fly at half-mast as the country mourns this tragic loss of life.

Accra

A military helicopter carrying five passengers and three crew members crashed in southern Ghana, resulting in the deaths of all on board, including the ministers of defence and environment. The officials were en route from Accra to Obwasi to participate in an event focused on combating illegal mining. The cause of the crash is currently unknown, and authorities have initiated an investigation. In response, Ghana has declared a period of national mourning, with flags ordered to fly at half-mast. The crash follows other recent incidents involving the country's air force.

Ghana declares national mourning after ministers killed in crash

A military helicopter carrying five passengers and three crew crashed in dense forest in southern Ghana. All on board, including the ministers of defence and environment, were killed. They were on their way from the capital Accra to the town of Obwasi to attend an event aimed at tackling illegal mining. The cause of the crash remains unclear. Authorities say an investigation is underway. It extends our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country. All flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice. People across Ghana are still coming to terms with the loss. It's a pity and tragic loss to the nation and to me. I don't know them personally, but their submissions on issues of national interest make me like them. I will continue eating my food after receiving this tragic news. When I heard the news, I thought it was a joke. Then I confirmed it from the radio. I said, OK, fine, then let me find out from the social media. It's very sad because this is a big loss to the nation. The crash is the latest in a string of recent incidents involving Ghana's air force. Last year, a chopper made an emergency landing in the western region. In 2020, another had a mid-air scare in the north. Hamza Mohammed, Al Jazeera.

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