Akonta Mining manager discloses why he turned against Wontumi

The General Manager of Akonta Mining Company Limited, Edward Akuako, has explained that fear of imprisonment and lack of political support pushed him to cooperate with the state in the ongoing illegal mining case involving his boss, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

In an interview on Okay FM on Wednesday, Mr. Akuako said he realized the stark difference in public sympathy between himself and the Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman when they first appeared in court.

“When we appeared in court, everyone shouted ‘free Chairman Wontumi,’ but no one mentioned my name,” he said. “I knew that if I didn’t protect myself, I could end up in jail without anyone noticing.”

Akuako was discharged by the Attorney-General on November 3, 2025, under Section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), after agreeing to serve as a state witness.

He was previously the fourth accused person in the high-profile case, which also names Akonta Mining, Wontumi, and two others currently at large.

The prosecution alleges that the accused engaged in illegal mining operations within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve and Samreboi area in 2024, causing the destruction of over 13 hectares of land and polluting the Tano River.

Akuako clarified that his decision was not driven by betrayal but by self-preservation and concern for his family.

“I have a wife, children, and living parents who were all worried. I had to think about them,” he stated.

He said the Attorney-General cautioned him against lying, stressing that his testimony must reflect only the truth.

“The state told me not to fabricate anything. They already have evidence, so lying would only worsen my situation,” Akuako noted.

Wontumi’s legal counsel, former MP Andy Appiah-Kubi, confirmed the withdrawal of charges against Akuako, saying it followed proper legal procedure but maintained that his client was innocent.

The case, which forms part of two separate illegal mining prosecutions against Wontumi, has been adjourned to November 12 and December 4, 2025.

Wontumi has pleaded not guilty and remains on bail.