Ashanti NPP Chairman falls ill following hours of questioning over alleged illegal mining activities
Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been hospitalised after enduring several hours of intense interrogation by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra on Tuesday, May 28, 2025.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was taken ill shortly after he was picked up by EOCO officials following an earlier appearance at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.
Detention Linked to Galamsey Allegations
Chairman Wontumi’s interrogation is reportedly tied to ongoing investigations into illegal mining, popularly referred to as galamsey. He has been accused of operating without the necessary licenses and allegedly encroaching on protected forest reserves—an issue that has drawn significant public attention amid the government’s efforts to clamp down on environmental degradation.
The arrest comes after he had honored an invitation by the CID as part of his bail conditions. However, upon exiting the CID headquarters, he was intercepted and detained by EOCO operatives.
Medical Emergency
Following prolonged questioning at EOCO’s headquarters, Chairman Wontumi reportedly began experiencing health complications and was subsequently rushed to a medical facility in Accra. His current condition remains undisclosed, though sources close to the NPP leadership confirm he is receiving treatment.
Reactions from Party Leadership
The development has triggered strong reactions within the NPP. Henry Nana Boakye, the party’s National Organizer, expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which Wontumi was arrested, describing it as excessive and politically charged.
“They stopped his convoy, wielding heavy weapons like they were after a warlord,” Boakye said, calling the arrest an intimidation tactic.
EOCO Yet to Respond
As of now, EOCO has not released an official statement regarding the interrogation or the health emergency that followed. It remains unclear whether further charges will be pressed or if Wontumi will be released pending investigations.
A Developing Story
The incident adds to the growing political tension as Ghana edges closer to the December 2024 general elections. Wontumi, a key figure in the NPP’s campaign machinery in the Ashanti Region, plays a crucial role in the party’s grassroots mobilisation.
More details are expected in the coming days as the investigation unfolds and officials provide updates on his health and legal status.
Read More: Chairman Wontumi Arrested and Detained by EOCO After CID Interrogation