In Ghana, it is common for large crowds to gather at disaster sites, some to help, others to watch and others to record for social media.
While the intention may be good, this practice often compromises forensic investigations that depend on preserving the scene exactly as it was when the incident occurred.
Every detail, debris position, impact angles, even footprints can be crucial in determining the cause of an accident.
Once moved or altered, this evidence may be lost forever.
The recent helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region involving senior government officials illustrated this problem.
Before emergency services could fully secure the site, crowds had entered restricted zones, touching and moving wreckage.
Such interference can make it harder for investigators to determine whether mechanical failure, human error, or weather played a role.
This is not new. After the 2015 Kwame Nkrumah Circle flood and explosion, and the 2021 Appiatse explosion, the presence of untrained civilians at the scenes complicated official investigations.
Standard practice worldwide is to immediately cordon off a disaster site, limit access to trained responders and secure evidence before it is disturbed.
In many countries, police or military forces enforce these measures within minutes.
Ghana must do the same.
Public education, strict enforcement and media support are essential.
Ghanaians are known for their communal spirit, but true assistance means allowing experts to work without interference and offering help from a safe distance.
If we want truth, justice and accountability after disasters, we must protect the integrity of the evidence.
Sometimes, the best way to help is to stay back, watch from afar, and let the professionals do their job.
Jonathan Awewomom,
US-based Ghanaian research scientist.
E-mail: jonathankeinzie8a154@gmail.com
