DNA Results Received as Two Helicopter Crash Victims Buried; State Funeral Set for August 15

DNA Results Received as Two Helicopter Crash Victims Buried; State Funeral Set for August 15

Ghana has moved a step closer to closure in the aftermath of the August 6 military helicopter crash, following the arrival of DNA test results from South Africa confirming the identities of the victims. The results, handed over to Health Minister Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, will be officially announced by the government in the coming days.

The confirmation paved the way for the burial this afternoon of Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, in accordance with Muslim tradition. Jannaza prayers were held at the Forecourt of the State House, followed by interment at the Military Cemetery in Accra. The solemn ceremonies were attended by senior government officials, political leaders, religious figures, and grieving family members.

In a deeply personal gesture, Ibrahim Mahama—CEO of Engineers and Planners and brother to  President John Dramani Mahama—pledged to pay off all outstanding debts of the two late officials according to Muslim tradition.

The remaining six victims will be honored at a state funeral scheduled for August 15, 2025, as the nation continues to mourn the loss of eight senior government and military officers, including the Ministers for Defence and Environment.

The crash investigation remains ongoing. Authorities earlier confirmed the recovery of the helicopter’s black box, which will be key in determining the cause of the tragedy.