Wontumi Multimedia journalist granted GH¢100k bail over alleged false claims on helicopter crash

An Accra Circuit Court has granted bail to broadcast journalist Emmanuel Kwakye Asare in connection with the publication of alleged false news regarding the August 6 helicopter crash.

Asare, who works with Wontumi Multimedia, appeared in court on Wednesday dressed in all black and maintained a composed demeanour throughout proceedings.

He was admitted to bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with two sureties. The presiding judge, Mr Samuel Bright Acquah, directed that the sureties must be civil servants, one of whom should earn not less than GH¢5,000.

As part of his bail conditions, Asare is to report weekly to the Special Investigations Unit of the Ghana Police Service. The case has been adjourned to September 1, 2025.

The prosecution had earlier opposed the bail application, stating that they were still preparing their disclosures. On Monday, August 25, Mr Acquah deferred his ruling on the matter to Wednesday, citing the prosecution’s position.

Chief Inspector Daniel Danku held brief for Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Emmanuel Haligah, the substantive prosecutor.

According to the prosecution, Asare, who hosts the programme Nsempafie on Wontumi Radio, stated during a live broadcast on August 9, 2025: “If your family member is part of those who died, you must hold President Mahama responsible because he is aware of every.”

The prosecution further alleged that Asare accused President Mahama of causing the helicopter crash at Akrofoum in the Ashanti Region.

“This statement, which was false, has generated an uproar within sections of the populace,” prosecutors told the court.

Asare was arrested on August 12, 2025, following police intelligence. During investigations, he reportedly admitted the offence in his caution statement. He has since pleaded not guilty to the charge of publication of false news with intent to cause fear and panic.