The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is scheduled to report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) again today, Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
He previously appeared at the CID Headquarters in Accra at midday on Monday, May 26, accompanied by his legal team, led by former Attorney General Godfred Dame.
According to a statement signed by Superintendent Joseph Benefo Darkwah, Head of the CID’s Public Affairs Unit, Chairman Wontumi was cautioned on three allegations:
1. Undertaking mining operations without a license
2. Pollution of water bodies
3. Entering a forest reserve without authorization
The statement noted that Wontumi fully cooperated with investigators, provided a statement, and was subsequently granted bail. He is expected to return to the CID at 3:00 p.m. today as investigations continue.
The police assured the public that further updates on the case will be communicated in due course.
Following his interrogation, Chairman Wontumi spoke with journalists and denied any involvement in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey. He asserted that he operates legally and had presented his valid mining license to the authorities.
“I was invited by the police and accused of being involved in galamsey. I presented my license to prove that I do not engage in illegal mining. They also alleged I was operating in a forest reserve, but I told them that wasn’t true. If they have evidence, they should show it to me,” he said.
He further clarified that while he had previously applied for a license to operate in a forest area, the Forestry Commission, Lands Commission, and Minerals Commission had informed him that the land was protected. “So, if anyone is working there now, I am not aware of it,” he added.
