The Accra High Court has sentenced Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, to 20 years’ imprisonment after finding him guilty in the illegal mining (galamsey) case involving Akonta Mining.
The prosecution argued that Wontumi unlawfully authorised mining activities on a concession in the Western Region, contrary to Ghana’s mining laws. He had consistently denied the allegations throughout the trial.
The criminal high court 4 of the high court presided by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay gave the verdict on chairman Wontumi’s involvement in illegal mining activities on Akonta Mining Company Limited’s concession at Samreboi in the Western Region.
The case attracted nationwide attention due to Wontumi’s position within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its implications for the country’s fight against illegal mining.
His lawyers are expected to review the judgment and may file an appeal against the conviction and sentence.
More updates to follow soon.
