Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, appeared before the High Court on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, to face charges related to illegal mining.
He was accompanied by his lawyers as proceedings began in the case involving his company, Akonta Mining Limited, and four others. The charges include engaging in illegal mining and operating without a licence.
On Monday, October 5, police granted Chairman Wontumi GHC 1 million bail with two sureties following his appearance at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) over the same allegations.
Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine had earlier stated that the charges had been signed and warned that Wontumi would be arrested if he failed to report to the CID as directed.
“The charges against Wontumi and Akonta Mining have been signed. He should be here on Monday. If he doesn’t come by Monday, I will order his arrest, and his charges will be read to him,” Dr. Ayine said.
CID Director-General DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor confirmed that investigations into Akonta Mining’s operations are ongoing. She added that another person had been arrested in connection with the case.
Chairman Wontumi’s appearance in court follows months of investigation into the activities of Akonta Mining Limited.
