The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has admonished President John Dramani Mahama to immediately reconstitute the investigation team tasked with probing the August 6 helicopter crash.
A statement issued by BPS on Friday, August 8, 2025, stated that the directive to have GAF probe the crash risks undermining transparency, independence, and public confidence.
“An institution cannot credibly investigate itself in a matter of this magnitude, particularly where public trust, national security, and the loss of high-ranking public officials are at stake,” the statement said.
BPS raised three objections to a military-led probe: potential conflict of interest since the GAF operated the aircraft; the likelihood of limited public disclosure due to the military’s culture of confidentiality; and the fact that global best practices — including ICAO Annex 13 — require such investigations to be conducted by independent accident investigation authorities.
It has therefore made recommendations, and they include:
An independent chairperson without operational or command ties to the GAF.
Civil aviation safety experts, both local and international.
Observers from Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee.
Representatives from independent safety advocacy bodies.
Technical advisors from ICAO or regional accident investigation bodies.
“This diverse, independent structure will not only meet international benchmarks but will also preserve the credibility of the investigation and uphold Ghana’s commitment to transparency and public accountability,” the Bureau stated.
Background
President John Dramani Mahama has extended condolences to the bereaved families of the eight individuals who died in the military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 7, 2025.
He assured the families and Ghanaians that a thorough investigation into the incident would be conducted to determine the cause of the crash.
The President stated that as Ghanaians mourn, questions about the cause of the tragedy are natural and important, and he wants to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation.
An investigative board of inquiry has been set up, and full data, voices, and other devices have been retrieved to aid in the investigation.
He added that all eight bodies have been retrieved, and the government is in close contact with the bereaved families regarding identification and final internment.
“These gallant men each served Ghana with distinction. As we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important. I want to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.
An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash. The flight data and cock pit voice recorders have been retrieved. All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
