The prosecution has officially closed its case in the ongoing trial of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and his company, Akonta Mining Company Limited, over alleged illegal mining activities.
The decision follows testimony from the fourth and final prosecution witness, an expert from the Minerals Commission, whose evidence concluded after cross-examination by defence counsel, Andy Appiah-Kubi.
Final Witness Testimony
During cross-examination, the Minerals Commission official indicated that the Commission had no record directly linking the accused persons to the permit at the centre of the prosecution’s claims.
“So if there is any other evidence to the contrary, it is a Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995),” the witness told the court.
The defence further suggested that there was no documented legal assignment between Akonta Mining and Henry Okum, another prosecution witness, to the knowledge of the Commission or any relevant state agency.
Responding, the witness maintained that mining without proper authorisation remains a criminal offence under Act 995, emphasizing that operating without licence, permit or authority is expressly prohibited under Ghana’s mining laws.
Defence Moves for ‘Submission of No Case’
With the prosecution’s case concluded, the defence requested four weeks to file a submission of no case—a legal procedure allowing accused persons to argue that the prosecution has failed to establish sufficient evidence requiring them to mount a defence.
Under Section 173 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), a successful submission of no case can result in the discharge of the accused without the need for further defence.
However, presiding judge Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay declined the four-week request and instead directed the defence to file the submission within 14 days.
The matter has been adjourned to February 18, 2026.
Charges and Background
Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining are facing multiple charges, including:
• Two counts of assignment of mineral rights without ministerial approval
• Two counts of purposely facilitating unlicensed mining operations
The alleged offences occurred at Samreboi in the Western Region.
According to prosecutors, the company permitted two individuals to conduct mining activities on its concession without obtaining the legally required approval from the sector minister.
Meanwhile, Kwame Antwi, a director of Akonta Mining Company Limited who faces similar charges, is currently on the run.
All accused persons have pleaded not guilty and have been granted bail pending the outcome of the trial.
What Happens Next?
The court will first determine whether the defence’s submission of no case has merit. If upheld, the accused could be discharged. If rejected, they will be required to open their defence and present evidence.
The ruling on the submission could significantly shape the direction of what has become one of the most closely watched illegal mining cases involving a prominent political figure.
Source: Graphiconline.com
