Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has found himself in hot water over a 3-year-old petition accusing him of engaging in illegal mining activities, also known as galamsey. The petition, submitted to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, alleges that Wontumi and three others – Edward Akuoko, Owusu Bempah, and Kwame Antwi, Director of Akonta Mining Limited – undertook mining operations without a license in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
The petitioners, including Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Chamber of Mines, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu, private citizen Kwame Asiedu, and anti-corruption campaigner Edem Senanu, claim that investigations revealed Wontumi’s involvement in galamsey activities, contrary to the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
Allegations Against Wontumi
– Undertaking mining operations without a license
– Felling trees in a forest reserve without a license
– Abetting unauthorized felling of trees
– Erecting buildings in a forest reserve without a license
– Abetting unauthorized erection of buildings in a forest reserve
The petitioners’ allegations have led to Wontumi and his co-accused facing seven criminal charges. Martin Kpebu has criticized the police for failing to act promptly on the petition, suggesting that this inaction may have contributed to recent protests against galamsey.
The case highlights the ongoing struggle against illegal mining in Ghana and the need for accountability among powerful individuals.
Related Stories:
– Ghana’s Fight Against Galamsey: A look at the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining
– Protests Erupt Over Galamsey: Citizens demand action against illegal mining activities