The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has confirmed that investigations into Akonta Mining—owned by prominent New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure and Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—are still actively underway.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Monday, June 30, CID Director-General, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, revealed that Chairman Wontumi has already made multiple appearances before investigators, with more expected in the coming days. His most recent appointment was delayed due to ill health, but officials say he is now expected to return for further questioning this week.
“Chairman Wontumi has visited us a couple of times,” DCOP Donkor confirmed. “We’ve been in communication with his legal team, and they’ve indicated he is now well enough to continue with the process.”
She further disclosed that Wontumi is not the only individual under scrutiny. A recent arrest was made involving an associate named Akuoko, who was detained last week and has since provided a statement as part of the broader probe into Akonta Mining’s operations.
While details remain limited due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, DCOP Donkor assured the public that authorities are taking the matter seriously. “We are not targeting one person. There are several individuals of interest, and we are methodically building the case. Once our investigations are complete, we will inform the public of our findings and any legal actions,” she added.
Chairman Wontumi first appeared before the CID on May 26, 2025, accompanied by his high-powered legal team, which included former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame and former Asante-Akim North MP Andy Appiah-Kubi.
The investigation follows months of public debate and scrutiny over Akonta Mining’s alleged involvement in unauthorized mining activities—commonly referred to as galamsey—particularly after the Forestry Commission halted the company’s operations on environmental grounds.
Despite the accusations, Wontumi has publicly maintained his innocence. Speaking on his own media platform, Wontumi TV, he stated: “I want to tell the public that I am not into galamsey. I operate a legal, large-scale mining company. All required documents are available, and I’m cooperating fully with the authorities.”
As public interest in the case grows, pressure is mounting on law enforcement and regulatory agencies to demonstrate transparency and enforce the law without fear or favour.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Gumedzo Isaac Acheampong
