The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has stated that Bernard Antwi Boasiako, commonly known as Chairman Wontumi, who is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, will face prosecution on Monday, October 6, 2025, for his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities associated with his company, Akonta Mining.

According to a report by citinewsroom.com on October 3, the Attorney General’s office has finalised charges against Wontumi, Akonta Mining, and five others, following investigations into their operations within forest reserves without the necessary permits.

The government revoked Akonta Mining’s license in April 2025 after the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, disclosed that the company was engaging in "galamsey" operations inside the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region, despite being licensed to operate outside of those reserves.

Dr Ayine, speaking to Civil Society Organisations at the Flagstaff House on Friday, October 3, explained that the delay in the case was due to concealed dockets under the previous administration.

“I am pleased to announce that in 2022, the police conducted a thorough investigation into Akonta Mining, but the case files were hidden until we came to power. When I took office and began investigating with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission, we faced challenges in obtaining information. Eventually, the police acknowledged the situation and presented the case file to my office two months ago.

“As we speak, the charges against Chairman Wontumi, Akonta Mining, and five others have been signed. We are currently waiting to read his rights to him, and he retains the right to remain silent before being brought from Kumasi," he stated.

He further explained that while Chairman Wontumi’s lawyers requested a Tuesday appearance, he has insisted that the accused appear on Monday instead.

“His lawyers requested a Tuesday appearance, but I insisted he appear on Monday. If he does not come on Monday, I will order his arrest to ensure he is brought to Accra so we can commence prosecution,” Dr Ayine stated.

NAD/AE

Mixed reactions greet DStv package upgrades