Dr Osei Sampane, a senior pathologist at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), has expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to send the remains of the eight officials who perished in last Wednesday’s helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom to South Africa for DNA analysis.

Speaking in an interview with Sompa News, Dr Sampane described the move as “a shame,” arguing that Ghana has the capacity and qualified professionals to handle such forensic investigations locally.

“It is a shame to send the remains of the eight government officials to South Africa for DNA analysis,” he said. “We have the technical expertise and facilities here in Ghana. This undermines confidence in our own institutions.”

The tragic crash, which claimed the lives of key government and military officials, has plunged the nation into mourning. 

While authorities say the transfer was necessary for conclusive identification due to the condition of the bodies, critics like Dr Sampane believe it reflects a lack of investment in local forensic capacity.

The remains of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and the six others are being flown to South Africa for forensic examination to properly identify each victim.

This has become necessary due to the extreme burns the victims suffered, leaving many of them burned beyond recognition. DNA testing has been recommended to ensure accurate identification.

A forensic officer from Ghana's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is aboard the flight to oversee the process, while a high-powered delegation of Ministers and Members of Parliament were present at the Kotoka International Airport to oversee the departure formalities.

Sompaonline.com/Prince Atta-Boateng