The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has admonished the media and public commentators to avoid sharing unverified information following the tragic Air Force Z-9 helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region, which resulted in the loss of all eight personnel on board.
In a press release from Captain VA Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations, the GAF expressed its concerns over the increasing prevalence of speculative reports. They indicated that such narratives could mislead the public and exacerbate the grief of the affected 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 comprehensive investigation into the crash is currently underway, with plans to seek collaboration with international agencies if needed.
They also warned against jumping to 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.”
Finally, the GAF expressed gratitude to the government and the public for their support, paying tribute to the deceased as patriots.
“May the souls of our patriots continue to rest in peace,” it concluded.
Read the statement below
