NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Antwi Boasiako ‘Wontumi’
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has issued a statement confirming that the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, honoured an invitation for questioning over allegations of illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, earlier today.
In a press release dated May 26, 2025, the CID stated, “Following an invitation by the Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, reported at the CID Headquarters today Monday 26th May 2025 at Mid-day to assist with investigation.”
Wontumi according to the police, was accompanied by a team of lawyers led by former Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame.
The statement outlined the allegations against Wontumi, which include “undertaking mining operations without a license, pollution of water bodies, and entering a forest reserve without authorization.”
The CID further noted that “Mr. Antwi-Boasiako cooperated very well with the police during the course of the investigation, after which he gave his statement to the Police and was granted bail to report to Police at 3pm tomorrow Tuesday 27th May 2025.”
Wontumi, a leading NPP figure and businessman, has previously faced scrutiny over alleged involvement in galamsey but has denied the claims.
Speaking to journalists after his interrogation on Monday, Chairman Wontumi denied allegations linking him to illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey.”
He stated that he had provided the police with his mining license as evidence that he is engaged in legal, authorised mining operations.
“I showed them my license to prove that I am not involved in galamsey. They also claimed that I have been mining in forest reserves, but I refuted the allegation and challenged them to provide evidence. I have been granted bail with two sureties,” he said.
This development follows a failed attempt to arrest him at his residence on Friday, May 23, 2025, by a joint team of National Security operatives and police officers.
GA
