The High Court in Accra has granted bail of GHC 15 million to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, better known as Chairman Wontumi, with conditions including three sureties—two of whom must justify with landed property located within the court’s jurisdiction.
Justice Audrey Kocuvie‑Tay, who presided over the hearing on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, heard submissions from Wontumi’s lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, and the Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem‑Sai, before granting the bail.
Charges and Plea
Wontumi, the first accused and official owner of Akonta Mining Company Limited, pleaded not guilty to charges including facilitating unlicensed mining and assigning mineral rights without ministerial approval. The allegations relate to illegal mining activities in Samreboi in the Western Region during 2024.
Arguments For and Against Bail
Andy Appiah-Kubi argued that his client was not a flight risk and would cooperate fully with investigators. In contrast, Dr. Srem-Sai, though not opposing bail outright, urged the court to impose strict conditions given the seriousness of the allegations and Wontumi’s financial stature.
“Gold mining is a capital-intensive business … persons of substance are often greater flight risks,” Dr. Srem-Sai told the court.
The prosecution also raised concerns over the second accused, Kwame Antwi, who remains at large. They highlighted that Wontumi, as co-director, had not provided any information about his partner’s identity or whereabouts.
Bail Conditions Imposed
In granting bail, Justice Kocuvie‑Tay imposed the following conditions:
- Bail bond of GHC 15 million
- Three sureties, two of whom must justify with landed property in the court’s jurisdiction
- All passports surrendered to the court registrar
- Wontumi placed on the immigration stop list at all entry and exit points
- Sureties required to submit copies of Ghana Cards and digital addresses
- Wontumi to report to investigators on the first and third Monday of every month
- Investigators must file monthly compliance reports directly to the judge
- The prosecution is given three weeks to file disclosure of evidence
The case’s next hearing is scheduled for October 28, 2025.
