Chairman Wontumi Arrested and Detained by EOCO After CID Interrogation

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.

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.

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