Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi has been hospitalized following a dramatic illness during an interrogation at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, May 27, after Wontumi was questioned for hours regarding allegations of illegal mining. These include operating without a license, environmental pollution, and encroachment on forest reserves. Prior to the EOCO session, Wontumi had honored an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, which later led to his arrest and transfer to EOCO.
According to his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, Wontumi became unwell during questioning, prompting emergency medical attention. He was immediately taken to an undisclosed hospital for treatment. Appiah-Kubi indicated that the interrogation would resume once his client is medically cleared.
The news has caused an uproar among NPP supporters and party officials, many of whom view the arrest as politically motivated. NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye strongly criticized the development, describing it as a return to “dark political tactics.” Supporters also staged a protest outside EOCO’s offices, demanding Wontumi’s release, which led to heightened security presence in the area.
In addition to the criminal probe, Chairman Wontumi was also served a civil writ by Exim Bank earlier the same day, compounding his legal challenges. His legal team has confirmed their intention to respond to the civil suit in court.
As of now, the NPP stalwart remains under medical care, and updates on his health and the ongoing investigations are expected in the coming days.
