Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), five days after securing a GH¢50 million bail with two sureties.
His release comes as part of an ongoing investigation into multiple criminal offences, including fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state.
With bail conditions now satisfied, Wontumi is expected to assist investigators from home and report when required.
His arrest followed an earlier invitation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to assist with inquiries into alleged illegal mining activities, including mining without a licence, polluting water bodies, and encroaching forest reserves.
After honouring the CID’s invitation, he was subsequently picked up by EOCO for further questioning.
The development has stirred political debate, especially within the ruling party’s stronghold, where Wontumi holds considerable influence.
Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, revealed via social media that Wontumi is also the subject of asset recovery efforts aimed at preserving suspected proceeds of crime.
He further hinted at a second layer of investigations involving potential links to international organised crime, noting that EOCO is collaborating with global law enforcement partners.
The case, which combines elements of domestic and transnational criminal investigations, is expected to heighten political scrutiny ahead of the 2024 elections.
