The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Obuasi West, Faustilove Appiah Kannin, has responded to criticism about how the remains of the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash were carried in sacks or jute bags.
Some Ghanaians, including the President of the Academy of Forensics, Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba, condemned the decision to transport the bodies in sacks, calling it “undignified” and inconsistent with both Ghana’s disaster recovery protocols and international best practices. Dr Wepeba stressed that secure, non-leaking body bags with zippers should have been used.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Madam Kannin explained that the method used was the only practical option at the time, given the condition of the remains.
“The place was very hot, so how could anyone have gone there to take anything? Even the body bags we requested could not be used. When the remains were placed inside, the material melted, and there was nothing else we could do,” the MCE said.
She revealed that AngloGold Ashanti Hospital had supplied several body bags, but they became unusable due to extreme heat at the crash site.
Madam Kannin also addressed speculation that residents who arrived early at the scene might have stolen personal effects, dismissing such claims as unfounded. She urged the public to show respect and caution in discussions about the tragedy, warning against spreading unverified or demeaning remarks.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with authorities examining whether adverse weather conditions played a role.
The incident claimed the lives of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and three military personnel, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manean Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
A state burial service, bringing together multiple religious denominations, is scheduled for Friday, August 15.
President John Mahama has also announced the creation of an Education Fund to support the children of the deceased.
