Ghana Air Force helicopter crashes en route to Obuasi; 8 persons on board

A Ghana Air Force Z9 helicopter carrying eight people has gone missing after taking off from Accra this morning, military officials confirmed in an urgent press release.

UPDATE: Ghana Air Force helicopter crashes near Obuasi; 4 burnt beyond recognition

The aircraft departed the capital at 0912 hours en route to Obuasi but lost radar contact shortly after, according to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). "All efforts are being made to establish contact," stated the release signed by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations.

On board were three crew members and five passengers, though their identities and the mission’s purpose were not immediately disclosed. Search operations are underway, with further updates promised.

The Z9, a utility helicopter often used for transport and medical evacuation, was last tracked over an undisclosed location. The GAF urged media outlets to disseminate the alert, noting: "For favour of publication, please."

Observers suggest adverse weather conditions or technical issues could be factors, but authorities have not confirmed any causes. The Jubilee House is expected to brief the press on developments later today.

UPDATE: Ghana Air Force helicopter crashes near Obuasi; 4 burnt beyond recognition