The Office of the Attorney General (AG) has confirmed the discovery of GH¢157,000 in cash, gold, and eight pump-action guns at the Atonka mining site, allegedly owned by Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
The seizure reportedly followed a detailed investigation by state authorities into illegal mining operations and other alleged unlawful activities connected to the site. According to the AG’s report, the operation uncovered not only the large amount of cash and weapons but also items believed to be linked to unlicensed mining activities.
The statement further revealed that two separate investigations are currently ongoing — one centered on suspected illegal mining (galamsey) activities at Wontumi’s mining concession, and the other involving financial and property-related matters. The items retrieved from the site are now being examined to determine whether they were proceeds of illegal mining or used in carrying out criminal acts.
Though specific names of suspects have not yet been released, the AG’s Office assured the public that the matter is being handled with urgency and transparency. Sources within the ministry indicated that evidence from the investigation will be forwarded to the court once the initial findings are reviewed.
This latest revelation comes just days after Chairman Wontumi was rearrested in connection with another case involving alleged illegal mining activities. The businessman and politician, who also serves as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has consistently denied any wrongdoing, insisting his mining operations are fully legal.
The case has sparked widespread public interest, as many Ghanaians continue to question the link between politics and illegal mining in the country. Analysts suggest that this could mark a significant test of Ghana’s commitment to tackling galamsey and enforcing the rule of law regardless of political affiliation.
The Attorney General’s Office has yet to issue further details about the prosecution timeline, but it emphasized that investigations are ongoing and additional findings will be made public soon.
