The committee probing the August 6 helicopter crash has clarified that the explosion occurred only after the helicopter struck the ground, dismissing earlier claims of a mid-air blast.

Speaking in Accra on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Captain (Rtd) Paul Forjoe, chair of the committee, explained that the crash resulted from a sudden loss of altitude and lift caused by a powerful downdraft.

He further noted that while the helicopter lacked certain modern safety systems, their absence did not contribute to the accident:

“If these additional safety enhancements had been available, the Air Force would certainly have welcomed them, as they improve safety for our dignitaries. However, it would be inaccurate to claim that the lack of such systems caused the crash,” Captain Forjoe stated.

Regarding the alleged mid-air explosion, he clarified:
“The Z-9 helicopter’s fuel tank is located beneath the passenger compartment. The aircraft was fully fuelled, so the explosion occurred only upon ground impact.”

The committee, set up shortly after the tragedy, investigated technical, operational, and environmental factors to determine the causes of the crash and propose measures to prevent future accidents.

The incident involved a Harbin Z-9EH military helicopter (tail number GHF 631), which departed Accra at approximately 9:12 a.m. for an anti-illegal mining mission in Obuasi, Ashanti Region, before losing radar contact and crashing in the Adansi Akrofuom District.