The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has called on the media and public commentators to refrain from spreading unverified claims regarding the recent Air Force Z-9 helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region, which killed all eight personnel on board.

In a press release issued by Captain VA Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations, the GAF expressed concern over the rise in speculative reports, warning that such narratives could mislead the public and compound the grief of bereaved families.

“For the sake of the bereaved families and loved ones, the Armed Forces urge media practitioners, panellists, social commentators, bloggers, and content creators to be circumspect in their reportage as a way of according respect to the memories of the fallen heroes and to mitigate the sorrows of the bereaved families,” the release read.

The GAF confirmed that a thorough investigation into the crash is underway, with plans to collaborate with international agencies if necessary. 

It cautioned against premature conclusions, stating: “At this point in time, any purported conclusions based on opinion, perceptions, and conjectures will be premature and misleading. The public is therefore advised to be wary of such reportage.”

The statement also thanked the government and the public for their support and honoured the deceased as patriots. 

“May the souls of our patriots continue to rest in peace,” it concluded.

Read the release below;