Omane Boamah, 5 other helicopter crash victims laid to rest
All eight victims of the August 6 helicopter crash have been laid to rest at the Military Cemetery in Tse-Addo, Accra.
Two of the victims, who were Muslims, Environment Minister Dr Murtala Mohammed and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, were buried on Sunday, August 10.
Following a state-sponsored interfaith burial service and funeral for all the victims on Friday, August 15, at the Black Stars Square, Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, NDC Vice President Dr Samuel Sarpong, Acting Deputy NADMO Director Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo were laid to rest.
Their bodies were identified through forensic DNA analysis after being burnt beyond recognition.
Dignitaries, bereaved families, sympathisers, and members of the public gathered at the Black Stars Square for Friday’s ceremony.
Speaking at the event, President John Dramani Mahama announced two significant measures; the establishment of a fund for the children of the victims and posthumous promotions for the military personnel who died in the crash.
The fund will cover the children’s education, health care, and welfare, ensuring they are not deprived of the opportunities their late parents worked to provide. It will cater for needs from primary to tertiary education, technical training, medical insurance, and essential living expenses.
Stanbic Bank has opened an account with an initial deposit of GH¢500,000, while the government is set to make an immediate seed contribution.
Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala has been promoted to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah to Flight Sergeant.
The President added that the remaining five victims, who were civilians, will be honoured at the next national awards ceremony.