The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢1 million, pending the commencement of his trial today.
He faces charges related to alleged illegal mining activities, specifically for mining without a licence.
His bail followed his appearance before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service in Accra yesterday (October 6), in compliance with a directive from the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine.
Warning
Dr Ayine had earlier warned that Chairman Wontumi would be arrested if he failed to report to the CID as instructed.
Speaking last Friday during President John Dramani Mahama’s engagement with civil society organisations on illegal mining, the Attorney-General revealed that the charges against Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining had been completed and signed.
“The charges against Wontumi and Akonta Mining have been signed. He should be here on Monday. If he doesn’t come by Monday, I will order his arrest, and his charges will be read to him,” Dr Ayine stated.
Investigations into the operations of Akonta Mining have been ongoing for several months.
Accompanied by his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, Chairman Wontumi appeared before investigators.
Speaking to journalists after the engagement, he commended both the police and the Attorney-General’s Office for their professionalism.
“I want to congratulate the police system on showing professionalism. We also want to thank the Attorney-General for facilitating the entire process,” he said.
Charges
Mr Antwi-Bosiako confirmed that the charge against him involved mining without a licence, noting that the matter would be fully addressed in court.
“As you have seen, we will go to court, and that is where the decision will be taken.
We are not here to maintain innocence, but we are allowed to proceed and then present our defence,” he added.
Source: Graphic
