By: Ebenezer Adugyamfi-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku,GhanaianNewsCanada\Date: June 16, 2026
The ongoing trial involving Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, took a dramatic turn as a prosecution witness alleged before an Accra High Court that he received instructions from the politician to carry out mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
The testimony forms part of the prosecution’s efforts to establish its case against Chairman Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining Limited, over allegations of illegal mining activities and unauthorized operations within protected forest areas. The accused has consistently denied all wrongdoing and is contesting the charges before the court.
Witness Makes Key Allegation
According to reports from court proceedings, the prosecution witness claimed that instructions were given for mining activities to be undertaken within the forest reserve. The testimony is considered significant because it seeks to directly connect the accused to the alleged operations being investigated by the state.
The witness’s evidence is part of a broader case in which prosecutors allege that mining activities were conducted without the necessary legal approvals and in violation of Ghana’s mining and environmental regulations.
Charges Facing Wontumi and Akonta Mining
Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited are facing multiple charges linked to alleged mining activities in protected areas and on mining concessions. Prosecutors claim that mining operations were carried out without proper authorization and that the company facilitated activities contrary to provisions of Ghana’s mining laws.
The case has attracted nationwide attention due to Wontumi’s prominent role within the NPP and his influence in Ghanaian politics.
Defence Maintains Innocence
The defence team has strongly rejected the allegations and insists that Chairman Wontumi has committed no offence.
In earlier court proceedings, defence witnesses disputed aspects of the prosecution’s case, with one witness telling the court that Wontumi never entered the Nimiri Forest Reserve and that he had no direct knowledge of alleged illegal mining activities within the protected area.
The defence has also filed witness statements and documentary evidence in support of its case as it seeks to challenge the prosecution’s claims.
Environmental Concerns Remain Central
The case highlights Ghana’s continuing struggle against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” which has caused significant environmental damage to forests, rivers, and farmlands across the country.
Environmental groups and policy analysts have repeatedly warned that mining activities in forest reserves threaten biodiversity, water resources, and local livelihoods. As a result, cases involving protected lands often attract considerable public interest.
A Closely Watched Trial
Legal observers say the outcome of the case could have implications beyond the individuals involved. It is expected to test the government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws while also demonstrating the ability of state institutions to prosecute high-profile cases without political interference.
As proceedings continue, the court will assess the credibility of witness testimony, documentary evidence, and arguments presented by both the prosecution and defence before reaching a final verdict.
Final Thought
The latest testimony adds another chapter to one of Ghana’s most closely watched mining-related court cases. While the prosecution believes it has evidence linking Chairman Wontumi to the alleged activities, the defence remains confident that the accusations will not stand up to legal scrutiny.
For now, the matter remains before the courts, where the evidence will ultimately determine the outcome.
