Chairman Wontumi Granted GH¢15 Million Bail Over Illegal Mining Charges, Ordered to Surrender Passport and Report Twice Monthly

Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known widely as Chairman Wontumi, has been granted bail of GH¢15 million by the High Court in Accra after being formally charged with multiple offences related to illegal mining.

The charges, which stem from his association with Akonta Mining Limited, involve allegations of unauthorised mining operations in protected forest areas. The court imposed strict bail conditions, including the surrender of his passport and a requirement to report to investigators twice each month.

Illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, continues to cause devastating environmental damage in Ghana. The case stands out not only for its environmental implications but also because it involves a politically influential figure. Legal accountability at this level could mark a turning point in national efforts to curb illegal mining activities.

The High Court imposed the following terms:

• GH₵15 million bail with three sureties
• Two sureties must own property and all must submit Ghana Cards
• Wontumi must submit his passport to the court
• He has been placed on a stop list at all entry and exit points
• He must report to investigators twice monthly — on the first and third Monday of each month

These conditions follow his re-arrest in connection with earlier illegal mining allegations involving the same company.

Details of the Criminal Charges

The charges include:

• Three counts of operating a mine without a license
• Two counts of unauthorized tree felling
• Two counts of building in a forest reserve without approval

Co-accused individuals include:

• Akonta Mining Ltd (1st Accused)
• Bernard Antwi Boasiako (2nd Accused)
• Kwame Antwi (3rd Accused, at large)
• Edward Akuoko (4th Accused, General Manager)
• Kwadwo Owusu Bempah, alias Sly (5th Accused, at large)

According to the charge sheet, Akonta Mining allegedly used up to 40 excavators during illegal mining operations, resulting in the destruction of over 13 hectares of forest and significant contamination of the Tano River, a vital freshwater source.

This prosecution is especially significant due to the political stature of the accused. In past years, public officials, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, have faced criticism for downplaying or denying illegal operations by politically connected companies like Akonta Mining.

Ghana has seen ongoing struggles to contain illegal mining. Forest reserves like Tano Nimire play an essential role in preserving biodiversity and protecting river ecosystems. The case is particularly sensitive due to Wontumi’s political influence and past public statements from government officials downplaying illegal activity by Akonta Mining.

In 2022, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources initially claimed the company had no active illegal operations. However, investigations and mounting evidence have since contradicted that stance.

Political and Legal Implications

Chairman Wontumi is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), making this case politically sensitive. The outcome may serve as a test of the government’s stated commitment to tackling illegal mining, regardless of political affiliations.

In 2022, President Nana Akufo-Addo came under criticism when the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources stated that Akonta Mining was not engaged in illegal mining, despite reports to the contrary. This latest development could reignite debates about political interference and the need for transparency in environmental governance.

Ghana continues to struggle with enforcement against galamsey despite numerous military operations and public education campaigns. According to the Ghana Water Company, over 50% of treatment costs in some regions are now linked to the pollution caused by illegal mining.

The court’s decision to impose strict bail terms and proceed with prosecution may reflect growing public pressure for accountability. However, the effectiveness of this legal action will depend on consistent enforcement and transparency throughout the judicial process.

As Ghana grapples with the impact of illegal mining, this case could become a benchmark for environmental justice and political accountability.

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