In the aftermath of the deadly military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, anti-galamsey campaigner and CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ing. Ken Ashigbey, has issued a blistering call for accountability, warning that politically connected individuals engaged in illegal mining bear moral responsibility for the tragedy.
Speaking on Citi FM’s *Eyewitness News*, Ashigbey said the August 6 crash in the Ashanti Region should serve as a national turning point in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining. Among the dead were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed—both known for their uncompromising stance against galamsey.
“This is not a moment for tears alone,” Ashigbey said. “We must channel our grief into positive action. Enough of simply mourning and moving on. This is the time to reflect and demand real change.”
Ashigbey urged government to move beyond deporting foreign nationals caught in illegal mining and ensure that all offenders—both local and foreign—face full prosecution under Ghanaian law.
“We should not just deport galamseyers but ensure they pay the fines stipulated and serve the full sentences that apply,” he insisted. “For politically exposed people involved in galamsey, the blood of these eight is on your head. Repent and get out of it—enough is enough.”
The helicopter crash occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District as the officials travelled to Obuasi, a known illegal mining hub, for an environmental inspection. The victims also included Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman; and three Ghana Armed Forces personnel—Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
A state funeral is scheduled for August 15. Due to the condition of the remains, DNA samples have been sent to South Africa for identification.
Ashigbey’s comments have added a sharper political edge to the national mourning, reframing the tragedy not only as an aviation accident but as a stark reminder of the deadly stakes in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining.
