Accra: An Accra High Court is set to deliver its ruling on March 16 regarding a submission of no case filed by Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, in an alleged illegal mining case. Mr. Boasiako is accused of conducting mining operations on a concession in Samreboi, Western Region, without the necessary authorization from the sector minister.
According to Ghana News Agency, the court's decision follows the submission made by Mr. Boasiako's legal team, which argues that the prosecution has not established a case against him after calling four witnesses who were cross-examined. The defence maintains that the prosecution has not provided sufficient evidence to support the charges against Mr. Boasiako, who serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mr. Boasiako, along with his company Akonta Mining and another individual, Mr. Kwame Antwi, who is currently at large, is accused of allowing unauthorized mining activities on the concession. The State, however, contends that it has presented a prima facie case against the accused, demonstrating that they should be required to present their defense in court.
The prosecution, led by Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, argued that Mr. Boasiako's admissions during the investigation confirm his involvement in the mining operations without necessary approvals. The State highlighted that Mr. Boasiako not only permitted breaches of statutory requirements but also provided financial and logistical support for the operations.
The State presented evidence, including documentary proof of the absence of statutory approval, witness testimonies of active mining operations, and admissions by Mr. Boasiako, to support its case. The prosecution urged the court to dismiss the no case submission, asserting that there is credible and sufficient evidence to require the accused to open their defense.