Chairman Wontumi Arrested and Detained by EOCO After CID Interrogation

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Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman faces arrest linked to $55 million mining scandal

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been arrested and detained by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) following his appearance at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

This development comes just a day after he was cautioned by the CID for alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. These include operating without a valid license, polluting water bodies, and encroaching on forest reserves. As part of his bail conditions, he had reported to the CID, but was intercepted by EOCO officials upon his exit and taken into custody.

According to reports, EOCO’s action is connected to ongoing investigations into a suspected $55 million financial crime linked to Akonta Mining Limited, a company associated with the embattled politician. The Office is reportedly probing allegations of financial impropriety and illegal transactions involving the firm.

The arrest has sparked tension within NPP circles. Some party supporters have criticized EOCO’s approach, describing it as politically motivated and unnecessarily dramatic. General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the manner of Wontumi’s detention, calling for due process and transparency in the investigation.

Chairman Wontumi Arrested and Detained by EOCO After CID Interrogation
Chairman Wontumi

As of now, EOCO has not issued an official statement detailing the specific charges or reasons for the arrest. However, sources indicate that the investigation is at a sensitive stage and could lead to further legal actions if substantial evidence is uncovered.

Chairman Wontumi’s arrest marks a significant moment in Ghana’s anti-corruption and environmental protection efforts, especially as the government continues to crack down on illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey.” His case is likely to dominate political and media discourse in the coming weeks.

Further updates are expected as EOCO and other state institutions continue their investigations.

Also Read: NIB Officials Storm Chairman Wontumi’s Residence in Arrest Attempt

Author

  • Daniel Ablordey

    Daniel Ablordey is a Business Analytics student at the University of Ghana Business School and an emerging strategist at the intersection of data, markets, and narrative. With a keen analytical mind and a passion for African business and economic trends, he is building a career focused on translating complex data-driven insights into accessible, decision-relevant stories that matter.As a writer and editor with Insight Ghana, African Business Insight, and The African Journal, Daniel delivers sharp, high-impact analysis on current affairs, business developments, and emerging trends across the continent. His work is defined by precision, clarity, and a deep commitment to responsible journalism — ensuring that every story he tells is not only accurate but meaningful to the audiences it serves.Beyond his editorial work, Daniel serves as an Ecobank Youth Ambassador, where he actively promotes financial inclusion, digital banking, and financial literacy among young Ghanaians. His leadership experience spans academic, professional, and faith-based institutions, where he has consistently driven initiatives centered on growth, structure, and long-term impact.Grounded in the principles of Pan-Africanism and service, Daniel brings a rare combination of analytical rigour and storytelling depth to his work. Whether unpacking market behavior, profiling emerging business leaders, or covering cultural shifts shaping the continent, he approaches every assignment with strategic intent and editorial integrity.His broader ambition is to contribute to Africa's transformation by shaping how data, business, and storytelling intersect — not just locally, but on a global stage.

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Daniel Amenyo Ablordey
Daniel Ablordey is a Business Analytics student at the University of Ghana Business School and an emerging strategist at the intersection of data, markets, and narrative. With a keen analytical mind and a passion for African business and economic trends, he is building a career focused on translating complex data-driven insights into accessible, decision-relevant stories that matter.As a writer and editor with Insight Ghana, African Business Insight, and The African Journal, Daniel delivers sharp, high-impact analysis on current affairs, business developments, and emerging trends across the continent. His work is defined by precision, clarity, and a deep commitment to responsible journalism — ensuring that every story he tells is not only accurate but meaningful to the audiences it serves.Beyond his editorial work, Daniel serves as an Ecobank Youth Ambassador, where he actively promotes financial inclusion, digital banking, and financial literacy among young Ghanaians. His leadership experience spans academic, professional, and faith-based institutions, where he has consistently driven initiatives centered on growth, structure, and long-term impact.Grounded in the principles of Pan-Africanism and service, Daniel brings a rare combination of analytical rigour and storytelling depth to his work. Whether unpacking market behavior, profiling emerging business leaders, or covering cultural shifts shaping the continent, he approaches every assignment with strategic intent and editorial integrity.His broader ambition is to contribute to Africa's transformation by shaping how data, business, and storytelling intersect — not just locally, but on a global stage.