The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been arrested by operatives from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), deepening his ongoing legal troubles over alleged illegal mining activities.
The unexpected arrest occurred on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, shortly after Wontumi exited the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Accra, where he had reported as part of his bail conditions. The CID had been probing his alleged involvement in illegal mining operations, including encroachment into protected forest reserves without official authorisation.
While Wontumi had reportedly complied with all requirements during his appearance at the CID, EOCO officials intercepted him upon his departure, taking him into custody. The sudden move has raised questions, particularly as EOCO has yet to formally state the grounds for the arrest.
Sources indicate the arrest may be connected to the same galamsey-related investigations, but no charges have been publicly confirmed.
Chairman Wontumi had previously turned himself in to the CID and was granted bail following initial questioning. His legal team has not yet commented on the latest development, and party supporters are closely monitoring the unfolding events.
The arrest has sparked concern among his allies in the Ashanti Region, many of whom have vowed to resist any perceived political targeting. With EOCO remaining tight-lipped, attention now turns to whether formal charges will be brought or further details will emerge.
