HELICOPTER CRASH: 'There will be transparency and due diligence of investigations into crash” — Lt Gen Agyapong

The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, has assured Ghanaians that investigations into the recent military helicopter crash will be conducted with “transparency and due diligence,” promising that findings will be made public.

He gave the assurance when the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), led by its President, Mr. Albert Dwumfuor, paid a courtesy call on him at the General Headquarters in Accra on Wednesday to commiserate with the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) following the 6 August tragedy that claimed the lives of the Defence Minister and seven other personnel.

Mr. Dwumfuor, speaking on behalf of the GJA, extended the Association’s condolences, describing the loss as a heavy blow to the military and the nation.

He appealed to the GAF to provide periodic updates on the ongoing probe to combat misinformation and disinformation, noting that accurate and timely communication was crucial to maintaining public trust.

He further urged journalists to exercise restraint in their reportage, cautioning against speculation that could undermine operational security or jeopardise investigative work.

He also called on the media to refrain from publishing images and comments that disrespect the memory of the fallen patriots or cause distress to grieving families.

The GJA President also raised concerns over reported harassment and assaults on journalists, calling for speedy investigations and the communication of outcomes, including sanctions, to affected parties and the Association.

He reaffirmed the media’s readiness to partner with the Armed Forces in safeguarding national security.

In response, Lt Gen Agyapong expressed gratitude for the visit and solidarity shown by the GJA.

He revealed that preliminary investigations were nearing completion, with the anti-crash recorder retrieved and analysis now involving international experts and manufacturers.

On the matter of assaults against journalists, the CDS issued an unreserved apology on behalf of the GAF, stating that such acts are neither condoned nor sanctioned by the High Command.

He pledged that sanctions, in line with the code of service discipline, would be applied to any personnel found culpable, and that findings from investigations would be shared with victims.

He also announced that the GAF will soon hold a press conference to provide the public with a detailed account of the sequence of events and the current status of the crash investigation.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith