The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has issued a strong caution to bloggers, social media influencers, and other content creators regarding the spread of unverified information following the helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, involving its personnel and government officials.
In a statement signed and issued by Captain VA Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations, the GAF expressed concern about the rapid circulation of misleading reports, speculative claims, and graphic images relating to the incident. It noted that such actions not only undermine official investigations but also cause unnecessary distress to the families of those involved.
“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,” it said.
The GAF acknowledged the strong public interest in the crash and assured that thorough investigations had begun to determine the exact cause. It pledged to leave no stone unturned, including working with international experts if necessary, to bring closure to the tragedy.
“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 read.
The caution comes in the wake of heightened online activity after the military helicopter crash, with some bloggers and content creators posting unconfirmed casualty figures and speculative accounts of the cause.
The GAF stressed that sharing such content without verification could compromise operational security and hinder accurate communication to the public.
The Armed Forces further reminded content creators that Ghana’s laws on misinformation and national security breaches apply to digital platforms, and offenders could face prosecution.
While investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, the GAF reassured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure transparency and the safety of personnel.
The GAF also expressed gratitude to the government, institutions, and individuals who have shown support since the crash. It also extended condolences to the families of the service members who lost their lives, describing them as patriots whose sacrifices will be remembered, adding that “May the souls of our patriots continue to rest in peace.”