The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has confirmed the arrival of a team of international experts in the region to aid in the investigations concerning the unfortunate military helicopter crash that took place on August 6, 2025.
The incident, which occurred in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve close to Brofoyedru-Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofrom District, resulted in the deaths of Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, along with six other individuals.
Dr. Amoakohene stated that he has instructed the investigators to engage with key stakeholders, emphasizing that their collaboration is essential to the inquiry. He expressed optimism that the partnership between local and international teams will reveal the reasons behind the crash and assist in averting future incidents.
The Minister also supported the decision made by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to disband the task force that had been enforcing environmental regulations in mining areas, particularly in the battle against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
According to the minister, although the task force was successful in executing operations, its methodology excluded important local stakeholders such as Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), regional ministers, and traditional leaders.
Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that security management should not be centralized, as community relations are fostered through dialogue and cooperation at the local level.
He further added that with the implementation of new reforms, the government will be better positioned to integrate community structures, thereby providing locals with a stronger sense of ownership in the fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation.
