chairman wontumi sentenced to 20 years in prison, new develo

An Accra High Court has delivered a harsh verdict against Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, sentencing him to 20 years in hard labor in the Samreboi illegal mining case.

The judgment was delivered on Monday, July 20, 2026, by the Criminal Court 4 Division of the High Court. Chairman Wontumi’s defense team had sought to postpone the ruling, citing the absence of lead counsel Samuel Atta Akyea, who was expected to return on July 22. However, the court dismissed the application, deeming it to lack merit.

The court’s decision is a significant blow to Chairman Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining Company Limited. The judgment highlights the gravity of the offenses committed, with the court emphasizing the need for deterrence to prevent environmental disasters in the country. The offenses in question relate to the illegal exploitation of mineral resources, which are the property of the State.

Wontumi conviction based on assumptions, not proof beyond reasonable doubt – NPP

Chairman Wontumi was sentenced to 20 years in hard labor on two counts, with an additional fine of 10,000 penalty units in default of which he will serve 3 years in hard labor. The sentences are to run concurrently. In addition, all items retrieved from the third accused’s concession are forfeited to the State, with the Minister required to comply with section 10 of the Minerals and Mining Act 2006.

The judgment is a significant development in the country’s efforts to combat illegal mining. The case has sparked widespread concern about the environmental impact of such activities, and the court’s decision is seen as a major victory for those advocating for greater regulation and enforcement in the sector.

The court’s ruling has significant implications for Chairman Wontumi and his company. The 20-year sentence is a severe penalty, and the fine of 10,000 penalty units in default of which he will serve 3 years in hard labor is a significant additional burden. The forfeiting of all items retrieved from the third accused’s concession is also a major blow to the company’s operations.

The case has been closely watched by the public and the media, with many calling for greater accountability and regulation in the mining sector. The court’s decision is seen as a major step in the right direction, and it remains to be seen how Chairman Wontumi and his company will respond to the judgment.

REP-VS.-BENARD-A.-BOASIAKO-AND-2-OTHERS-JUDGMENT

The sentencing of Chairman Wontumi to 20 years in hard labor marks a significant turning point in the country’s efforts to combat illegal mining. The case has highlighted the need for greater regulation and enforcement in the sector, and the court’s decision is seen as a major victory for those advocating for greater accountability.

Source: MyNewsG