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Chairman Wontumi Pleads Not Guilty to Seven Illegal Mining Charges in Tano Nimire Forest Case
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has pleaded not guilty to all seven charges brought against him and four others over alleged illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimire Forest Reserve at Samreboi in the Western Region.
His plea was entered on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Accra High Court, just hours after he appeared in a separate case earlier in the day, where he was placed on a stop list and granted GH₵15 million bail for six other mining-related offences.
Chairman Wontumi appeared in court alongside officials of Akonta Mining Company Limited and other associates accused of engaging in unauthorised mining operations and environmental destruction within a protected forest reserve. The prosecution alleges that their activities resulted in the destruction of approximately 13 hectares of land in the Tano Nimire Forest.
After hearing arguments from both the prosecution and defence, the court granted Wontumi bail in the sum of GH₵10 million with two sureties, one of whom must justify with landed property.
The case, filed by the Office of the Attorney-General, involves offences under the Minerals and Mining Act, the Forest Protection Act, and the Criminal Offences Act. The accused persons are alleged to have conducted illegal mining operations, felled trees, and erected structures within the forest reserve without the necessary permits.
Details of the Charges:
1. Undertaking Mining Without Licence:
Akonta Mining Company Limited allegedly operated a mining concession at Samreboi in 2022 without a valid licence from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, contrary to Section 99(2)(a) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by Act 995.
2. Undertaking Mining Without Licence:
Chairman Wontumi and one Kwame Antwi (currently at large) are accused of conducting mining operations as owners and directors of Akonta Mining Company Limited within the Tano Nimire Forest Reserve without authorisation.
3. Undertaking Mining Without Licence:
The company’s General Manager, Edward Akuoku, and Operations Manager, Kwadwo Owusu Bempah (alias Sly, at large), are also accused of unlawfully operating within the reserve.
4. Felling Trees Without Authority:
Akonta Mining Company Limited allegedly felled over 300 merchantable trees and several saplings without written authorisation, contrary to the Forest Protection Act, 1974 (NRCD 243).
5. Abetment of Unauthorised Felling of Trees:
Chairman Wontumi and three others allegedly aided the unlawful felling of trees in violation of the Forest Protection Act and Section 20(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
6. Erecting Buildings Without Permission:
The company is further accused of constructing buildings and other structures in the forest reserve without approval, contrary to the Forest Protection Act.
7. Abetment of Unauthorised Construction:
Wontumi and his co-accused allegedly facilitated the unauthorised erection of structures within the forest reserve without permission from the forestry authorities.
Chairman Wontumi, who had earlier been granted GH₵1 million bail in a related case, has met all bail conditions and was released pending trial.
Entertainment
Lasmid expresses gratitude to Okomfour Kwadee for inspiring a new generation
Ghanaian musician Lasmid has expressed deep appreciation to legendary hiplife icon Okomfour Kwadee, acknowledging the profound influence the veteran artiste has had on today’s generation of musicians.
During a recent visit, Lasmid shared his excitement about meeting Okomfour Kwadee in person for the first time, describing the moment as a memorable and emotional experience.
Reflecting on his musical upbringing, the singer revealed that he grew up listening to Okomfour Kwadee’s songs, which played a key role in shaping his artistry and career.
“We came here today to show our appreciation because you’ve truly inspired us. This is my first time meeting you, and I’m incredibly happy and grateful. Thank you for everything you’ve done for us,” Lasmid said.
He added that Okomfour Kwadee’s distinctive musical style has inspired many young artistes, including himself, noting that his generation has drawn heavily from the hiplife legend’s sound.
“We listened to your music while growing up and took a lot of inspiration from it. Today, we create similar sounds because of your influence. That’s why we decided to come and visit you personally,” he added.
Entertainment
“Free Miracles Now!” – David Osei Warns Fear and Intimidation Are Hurting Ghana’s Democracy
Ghanaian actor and New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporter Prince David Osei has joined growing calls for the release of NPP communicator Dennis Miracles Aboagye following his arrest by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
In a post shared on his X account on Monday, July 13, 2026, the actor expressed concern over what he described as the misuse of state institutions, warning that such actions could weaken Ghana’s democratic principles and erode public trust in governance.
According to David Osei, public confidence in state institutions is threatened when citizens begin to question the fairness, openness and constitutionality of government actions. He argued that democracy is endangered when fear, intimidation and threats are used as tools of control.
“Public confidence in institutions can be shaken when citizens question the fairness, openness, and constitutionality of government actions.
“Democracy suffers when fear, intimidation, and threats are used to control. It’s essential to uphold due process, no matter the issue,” he wrote.
He further stressed that every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation or the nature of allegations against them, deserves to be treated in accordance with the rule of law and constitutional due process.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a prominent NPP communicator and spokesperson for former Vice President and the party’s 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has been an outspoken critic of the Mahama administration since the NPP lost the 2024 general elections.
His arrest follows an investigation launched by EOCO into the alleged misappropriation, misapplication, diversion and theft of public funds estimated at approximately GH¢55 million.
In a statement dated Monday, July 13, 2026, EOCO confirmed that Aboagye is under investigation over financial and procurement-related irregularities linked to his tenure as the former Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation (IMCCoD).
EOCO explained that the investigation was initiated after receiving a petition from the current Executive Secretary of IMCCoD, requesting further investigations into the findings of a forensic audit conducted at the secretariat. The audit examined the institution’s financial and administrative activities covering the period between 2022 and 2025.
The anti-graft agency stated that the ongoing investigations are intended to determine whether public funds were improperly managed or diverted during Aboagye’s time in office.
Entertainment
Creative Arts Agency Embarks on Nationwide Registration and Stakeholder Engagement Tour
The Creative Arts Agency (CAA) has announced a nationwide engagement tour aimed at educating creative professionals on the importance of registering with the agency and the benefits that come with membership.
In a promotional message, the agency invited creatives across Ghana to prepare for interactive sessions that will explain why registration with the Creative Arts Agency is essential and how it can support their careers and businesses.
The tour will cover major cities across the country, including Tamale, Bolgatanga, Sunyani, Kumasi, Koforidua, Cape Coast, Takoradi and Accra.
According to the agency, the outreach programme will provide an opportunity for artists, musicians, actors, writers, designers, filmmakers and other creative professionals to engage directly with officials, ask questions and learn more about the agency’s services.
The Creative Arts Agency says the initiative forms part of its efforts to strengthen Ghana’s creative industry by promoting registration, collaboration and access to opportunities for practitioners nationwide.
The campaign is being held under the slogan: “Creativity Beyond Borders.”
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