Ghanaian Opposition Official Chairman Wontumi Released on Bail After CID Interrogation

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of Ghana’s main opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been released by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service after being interrogated.

Wontumi was granted bail with two sureties and left the CID premises accompanied by his lawyers.

Documentation Provided

During his interrogation, Wontumi provided documentation to the police, which he claims proves that he was not involved in any illegal mining activities. He also presented further proof that he was not mining in any forest reserve. Wontumi’s lawyers were present throughout the interrogation and bail process.

Background to the Incident

Wontumi turned himself in to the Ghana Police Service earlier today, following last week’s failed attempt by operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to execute a search warrant at his Kumasi home on May 23. A tense standoff ensued on that day when heavily armed national security operatives tried to enter his residence with a court-approved search warrant.

Allegations of Illegal Mining

The state is pursuing Wontumi for his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities through his company, Akonta Mining. Earlier this month, Land and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah announced the termination of the Akonta Mining lease. However, Wontumi is challenging the cancellation in court.

Key Points:

Bail Granted: Wontumi was granted bail with two sureties.
Documentation Provided: Wontumi provided documentation to prove his innocence.
Allegations of Illegal Mining: Wontumi is being pursued for alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.
Court Case: Wontumi is challenging the cancellation of his company’s mining lease in court.

The incident has sparked significant interest, given Wontumi’s prominent position in the NPP and the ongoing debate about illegal mining in Ghana. The outcome of the court case will be closely watched by many.

Source: Africa Publicity