Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), is currently under investigation for a series of serious criminal offences. These include fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.
According to Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, the investigation is being led by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which is also initiating asset recovery proceedings to prevent the suspected proceeds of crime from being dissipated.
Chairman Wontumi was apprehended by EOCO officials late Tuesday at the Police CID headquarters and detained overnight. On Wednesday, May 29, he was granted bail set at GH¢50 million with two sureties—both required to justify their ability to meet the terms. However, as of Wednesday evening, he remained in custody after failing to satisfy the bail conditions.
Dr. Srem-Sai further disclosed that a separate but related investigation is underway, linked to an international organised crime network. EOCO is reportedly working in collaboration with global law enforcement bodies on this front.
Wontumi’s lawyer, Andy Appiah Kubi, confirmed that his client was questioned about allegations of causing financial loss to the state and reportedly fell ill during the prolonged interrogation.
Prior to his arrest by EOCO, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) had summoned Mr. Boasiako on Tuesday, May 28, regarding allegations of illegal mining. He had previously been cautioned on Monday, May 26, for allegedly engaging in mining operations without a licence.
Following his appearance at the CID headquarters, EOCO officials took him into custody for further questioning.
His arrest has triggered protests from supporters, including NPP executives, many of whom gathered outside EOCO offices demanding his release.
On Wednesday, the Minority Caucus in Parliament joined the growing protests, staging a walkout from the chamber and marching to the EOCO offices to demand Chairman Wontumi’s immediate release.
At a press briefing, the Minority accused authorities of imposing deliberately excessive bail conditions aimed at prolonging his detention. They described the situation as a violation of his fundamental human rights.
