September 11, 2025
Vigil at Takoradi Air Force Base honours fallen helicopter crew

A solemn vigil has been held at the Takoradi Air Force Base tonight in memory of three Ghana Air Force personnel who perished in last week’s military helicopter crash.

The fallen crew members, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, were all based at the Takoradi Air Force Base.

Vigil at Takoradi Air Force Base honours fallen helicopter crew

They lost their lives alongside five senior government officials, including Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister, Murtala Mohamme, when their helicopter went down in Brofoyedru Sikaman in the Ashanti Region.

Vigil at Takoradi Air Force Base honours fallen helicopter crew
Wife of deceased Flying Officer Manean Twum Ampadu, Lt Ewuradwoa Kumi-Kyeremeh

The ceremony, which took place at the Takoradi Airport, brought together service personnel, grieving families, and members of the public to pay their last respects.

Vigil at Takoradi Air Force Base honours fallen helicopter crew

Candlelight tributes, solemn music, and moments of silence honoured the courage and dedication of the crew, who were on official duty transporting government officials to Obuasi for a flagship mining sector programme.

Vigil at Takoradi Air Force Base honours fallen helicopter crew

The crash, which claimed eight lives in total, has plunged the nation into mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and state burial arrangements underway.

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