In a telegram signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Vatican, and addressed to Bishop Matthew K. Gyamfi of the Sunyani Diocese—also President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference—the Holy Father extended his heartfelt condolences.

“His Holiness Pope Leo XIV sends his condolences upon the deaths of the ministers, government officials, and all who perished in the military helicopter crash,” the message read.

“Entrusting the souls of the deceased to the mercy of Almighty God, and with prayers for those who mourn their loss, especially their families, the Holy Father assures the nation of his spiritual closeness at this difficult time.”

The Vatican message was released by the Holy See Press Office on Thursday, August 7.

The crash occurred in a densely forested part of the Adansi Akrofuom District in the Ashanti Region. All eight occupants of the military aircraft were killed.