The Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, has called for a renewed sense of urgency and national awakening to combat illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey.

This call follows the tragic death of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and seven others in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, while en route to Obuasi to attend a galamsey-related program.

In a strongly worded message, Dr. Agyemang stated:

“If these gallant men were on their way to confront the scourge of illegal mining, then the fight against galamsey must now assume the same urgency with which we respond.”

He further emphasized that beyond the outpouring of tributes to mourn the victims, their tragic deaths must serve as a national awakening.

“This painful moment reminds us of the quiet risks borne each day by those who serve our country.
Their sacrifice, though often unseen, is real—and in this instance, ultimate.”

Dr. Agyemang added: “We owe them more than tributes; we owe them commitment and action.”

He noted that the late Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, was his senior during their time at Pope John Senior High School.

He prayed for his soul and those of all who perished in the crash, expressing hope that their sacrifices would not be in vain.

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah was one of the victims who lost their lives in the tragic crash of the Z9 helicopter, which belonged to the Ghana Armed Forces.

The crash also claimed the life of the Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Other victims included: Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, NDC Vice Chair, Samuel Sarpong, Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East.

The helicopter’s crew members were: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The helicopter crashed on August 6, 2025, while en route to Obuasi to attend a program related to illegal mining activities, as part of government efforts to end galamsey.