Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been granted bail with two sureties after being interrogated by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. The interrogation, which took place on Monday, May 26, 2025, was in connection with allegations of illegal mining activities.
The CID’s investigation centers on three main allegations:
1. Undertaking mining operations without a license
2. Pollution of water bodies
3. Entering a forest reserve without authorization
Chairman Wontumi, accompanied by his legal team led by former Attorney General Godfred Dame, cooperated fully with investigators and provided his statement.
In a media interaction following his release, Wontumi denied any involvement in illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.” He stated that he had presented his mining license to authorities to demonstrate that his operations are legal.
The police have scheduled a follow-up meeting with Chairman Wontumi at the CID headquarters at 3:00 p.m.m today, as investigations continue.
This development follows a failed attempt by security operatives to arrest Wontumi at his residence on Friday, May 23, 2025. The situation led to a standoff, after which Wontumi agreed to present himself to the CID.
The CID has assured the public that further updates on the case will be communicated in due course.
