Chairman Wontumi executes bail, released from EOCO custody
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako a.k.a Chairman Wontumi, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), five days after securing a bail.
That was after Chairman Wontumi, who is under investigation on suspicion of multiple criminal offences including fraud, money laundering and causing financial loss to the state, successfully executed his bail condition set by the investigative body.
With his release, the suspect will now assist with investigations from home and is expected to make himself available as and when he is needed.
Background
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service had earlier on Tuesday, invited Mr Boasiako to assist with ongoing investigations linked to alleged illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
He had previously been cautioned over accusations of mining without a licence, activities that are polluting water bodies and encroachment of forest reserves.
However, after honouring the CID’s invitation, he was subsequently picked up by EOCO officials and transported to their head office for further questioning, reportedly on related issues.
In a post on social media last Thursday (May 29) the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Justice Srem-Sai said Chairman Wontumi was under investigation for multiple criminal offences including fraud, money laundering and causing financial loss to the state.
According to the Deputy A-G, the ongoing criminal investigation is running concurrently with asset recovery efforts to prevent the suspected proceeds of crime from being dissipated.
He also gave a hint of a second strand of investigations involving Chairman Wontumi’s alleged role in a larger international organised crime scheme.
EOCO is said to be working closely with international law enforcement partners in this regard, he indicated.
Chairman Wontumi has already spent five nights in custody for failing to meet the bail condition of GH¢50 million with two sureties to be justified.
Writer’s mail: justice.agbenorsi@graphic.com.gh
