Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, on Monday, October 6, reported to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in Accra, accompanied by his lawyers Godfred Yeboah Dame and Andy Appiah-Kubi, for his charges to be formally read.
His appearance follows an earlier directive from Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine, who, during President Mahama’s engagement with civil society organisations on October 3, announced that charges had been prepared against Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited, his company alleged to be involved in illegal mining activities (galamsey).
“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,” Dr. Ayine stated.
The CID, led by DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, earlier confirmed that investigations into Akonta Mining’s operations were ongoing and that another suspect had been arrested in connection with the case. She also revealed that Wontumi had previously visited the CID but delayed his follow-up visit due to ill health.
This marks Wontumi’s second official appearance before investigators since May 2025, when he first responded to the CID’s summons.
The embattled politician has consistently denied any involvement in illegal mining, insisting that he respects due process and the directives of the Forestry Commission, which earlier halted Akonta Mining’s operations.
