The Accra High Court has granted GH¢10 million bail to Kwadwo Owusu Bempah, the Operations Manager of Akonta Mining, in a high-profile case involving alleged illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. The bail, which requires three sureties—one to be justified, was granted on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, following his appearance before the court. The case forms part of a broader prosecution involving Akonta Mining and its owner, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Court Bail Conditions Imposed on Owusu Bempah
Justice Ruby Aryeetey, who presided over the case, imposed strict bail conditions on the fifth accused person. These include:
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Bail sum of GH¢10 million
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Three sureties, with one required to be justified
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Deposit of passport with the court registry
According to the defence counsel, Andrew Vortia, his client voluntarily presented himself to the police three weeks prior to his arrest.
Background to the Re-Arrest
Although Owusu Bempah was initially granted police enquiry bail, he was re-arrested on Monday, January 12, 2026, after allegedly failing to report to the police as required under the terms of that bail.
Charges Levelled Against the Accused
In court, Owusu Bempah pleaded not guilty to several charges, including:
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Undertaking mining operations without a licence
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Abetting the unauthorised felling of trees
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Abetting the unauthorised erection of structures
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Operating within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without approval
These offences are linked to alleged illegal mining activities within a protected forest zone.
Prosecution’s Case and Role of Chairman Wontumi
The prosecution revealed that although Akonta Mining holds valid mining concessions at Samreboi and Abekoase in the Western Region, these concessions are outside the forest reserve. An application to mine within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve was allegedly refused.
Despite this refusal, the prosecution claims that Chairman Wontumi entered the reserve, cut down trees, and erected unauthorised structures.
Status of Other Accused Persons
According to the charge sheet:
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Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) has been arrested and arraigned
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Edward Akuoko, General Manager of Akonta Mining, was arrested but charges against him have been withdrawn and he will serve as a prosecution witness
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Kwame Antwi, a shareholder of the company, remains at large
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Owusu Bempah has now been granted bail
Next Court Date
The court has adjourned the case to February 17, 2026, as investigations and proceedings continue.
