The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has confirmed that a team of international experts have arrived in the region to assist in investigations into the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, 2025.

The accident, which happened in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve near Brofoyedru-Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofrom District, claimed the lives of Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six others.

Dr. Amoakohene said he has directed the investigators to key stakeholders, noting that their cooperation is vital to the probe. He expressed confidence that the collaboration between local and international teams will uncover the cause of the crash and help prevent future tragedies.

The Minister also backed the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) decision to withdraw the task force that had been enforcing environmental regulations in mining communities, especially in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

According to the minister, while the task force was effective in carrying out operations, its approach sidelined key local stakeholders such as Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), regional ministers, and traditional authorities.

Dr. Amoakohene stressed that security management cannot be centralised since community relations are built on dialogue and collaboration at the local level.

He added that with the new reforms, the government will be able to better integrate community structures, giving locals a greater sense of ownership in the fight against illegal mining and environmental destruction.