The Friends of Boxing (FOB) and wider Ghanaian boxing fraternity have joined the nation in grieving the loss of eight public servants in last week’s military helicopter crash.
In an emotional statement, FOB founder Sammy Heywood Okine expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy in Sikaman Forest, Adansi Akrofuom, calling the victims “gallant distinguished Ghanaians” who perished while combating illegal mining.
“Though shocked and heartbroken, we trust the Almighty’s wisdom,” Okine wrote, extending condolences to President Mahama, the National Democratic Congress, Parliament, and bereaved families.
He specifically honored Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah a former Deputy Youth & Sports Minister alongside Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and Air Force personnel Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo.
The statement emphasized unity amid grief, urging Ghanaians to “shun political differences” following the officials’ deaths during an anti-galamsey mission. “They died protecting our water, lands, and environment a sacrifice beyond words,” Okine noted, capturing the boxing community’s devastation.
His tribute closed with a spiritual plea: “May the Holy Spirit comfort us all.” As Ghana prepares for state funerals, the boxing world’s solidarity underscores how deeply the loss has cut across every sphere of national life.
