A prosecution witness told the Accra High Court that Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, allegedly instructed mining in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. Chief Inspector Eugene Akpo Glover, the lead investigator, made this claim under cross-examination. This testimony was given in the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
This allegation comes during the ongoing illegal mining case involving Chairman Wontumi. He is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The accused persons, including his company Akonta Mining Limited, face multiple charges. These charges relate to alleged mining activities in a protected forest without legal authorisation. The court hears that investigations showed operations proceeded without necessary permits.
This legal proceeding fits into Ghana's broader fight against illegal mining, often called 'galamsey'. Illegal mining damages the environment, particularly forest reserves and water bodies. The government has spent significant resources to combat this issue, including deploying military personnel. High-profile cases like this are important indicators of the state's resolve. The involvement of a senior political figure draws scrutiny to regulatory enforcement and political accountability within the mining sector. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service shows strong growth in the mining sector, contributing to a 6.4 percent economic growth in the first quarter of 2026. However, this growth needs to be sustainable and adhere to environmental laws.
Chief Inspector Eugene Akpo Glover, the case's lead investigator, directly attributed these instructions to Chairman Wontumi. He stated during cross-examination that evidence gathered points to mining operations occurring without proper permits. The current legal framework for mining in Ghana mandates strict environmental impact assessments. It also requires specific permits for operations in forest reserves. These regulations aim to protect Ghana's natural resources.
Looking ahead, the court will continue hearing evidence from other prosecution witnesses. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for environmental protection policies. It may also affect the perception of political influence in natural resource management. Businesses operating in Ghana's mining sector will closely watch this case. It could set a precedent for enforcing mining regulations, especially in protected areas. Investors will also monitor the commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. This trial could influence future government actions against illegal mining operators.