The Coalition Against Illegal Mining has issued a strong call for the immediate prosecution of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, who is also the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking at a press conference, the Convener for the Media Coalition against illegal mining, Dr Kenneth Ashigbey emphasized the need for accountability in illegal mining cases involving politically exposed persons.
“We commend and plead with government’s move to arrest the Director of Akonta Mining Limited after the Coalition’s press release. It is crucial to complete this process by arresting and prosecuting all directors of Akonta Mining Limited,” he stated.
Chairman Wontumi, one of the directors of Akonta Mining, was recently released on a GH¢50 million bail by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) after being detained in connection with investigations into illegal mining, fraud, and money laundering.
The arrest followed an invitation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for his alleged involvement in mining without a license, polluting water bodies, and encroaching forest reserves.
With bail conditions now satisfied, he is assisting investigators while reporting as required.
Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, revealed via social media that asset recovery efforts are underway to trace suspected proceeds of crime linked to Wontumi.
He further noted the investigation could expand into potential international organized crime connections, with EOCO collaborating with global enforcement agencies.
