BY Nadia Ntiamoah
An Accra Circuit Court has ordered the remand of Wontumi TV presenter, Akyenkwaa Nana Kofi AsareAkyenkwaa, after prosecutors accused him of spreading false information implicating President John Mahama in the recent military helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofoum.
The incident, which occurred on August 6, claimed the lives eight officials including three military personnel and has plunged the nation into mourning.
Preliminary investigations by the Ghana Armed Forces suggest the crash was an accident, with experts examining the aircraft’s black box to determine the exact cause.
According to court records, Asare was arrested on August 12 after allegedly stating on live television that President Mahama “knows something” about the tragedy.
Prosecutors argue that the comments, made without evidence, were not only false but had the potential to inflame public sentiment during a sensitive national period.
During Thursday’s hearing, the presiding judge declined a bail request and directed that Asare remain in police custody while investigations continue.
His lawyer, Enoch Anhwere Afoakwah, strongly disagreed with the ruling, describing it as a “miscarriage of justice” and indicating plans to appeal the decision.
The case comes at a time when the country is preparing for the state funeral of the eight fallen men on Friday, August 15.
The solemn ceremony is expected to draw high-ranking government officials, military leadership, traditional rulers, and grieving families.
The August 6 helicopter crash is the deadliest military aviation incident in Ghana in recent years.
While authorities have urged the public to await official investigative findings, the spread of speculation — particularly on social and broadcast media — has become a growing concern for security agencies.
If convicted under Ghana’s laws on publication of false news, Asare could face a custodial sentence or a substantial fine.
