Private legal practitioner Lawyer Martin Kpebu has described convicted illegal miner Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, as a key figure in Ghana’s illegal mining (galamsey) activities, arguing that his conviction represents a move towards prosecuting the alleged masterminds behind the practice.
According to Mr Kpebu, the outcome of the case aligns with calls for authorities to focus on individuals believed to be directing illegal mining operations rather than only targeting workers operating at the lower levels.
His comments follow the conviction of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman by the High Court in Accra in the Samreboi illegal mining case. The court sentenced Wontumi to 20 years in prison after finding him guilty of offences related to illegal mining.
The judgment has generated public discussion, particularly because two persons who admitted involvement in the mining activities during the trial appeared as prosecution witnesses but were not charged.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, Lawyer Kpebu said the conviction should be viewed against the government’s stated objective of pursuing individuals who occupy influential positions within illegal mining networks.
“Because we have always been told that the President wanted to get the kingpins,” he said.
He argued that the two witnesses who testified against Wontumi, Henry Okum and Michael Ayisi, appeared to be lower-level participants in the operation, while Wontumi was the person considered to be at the top of the structure.
“So far, it appears Henry Okum and Michael Ayisi are underlings, and Wontumi is a kingpin,” he stated.
Mr Kpebu further pointed to Wontumi’s public image and past displays of wealth as factors that contributed to the perception of him as a major player in the mining industry.
He recalled instances where Wontumi publicly showcased gold and expensive items, arguing that such actions reinforced the view that he was a powerful figure within the sector.
“Don’t forget, in the past, Wontumi has been to a radio station with gold bars, flaunted wealth, showing necklaces and others. So Wontumi has posed as a kingpin,” he said.
The lawyer maintained that relying on individuals who were allegedly involved at a lower level as prosecution witnesses was necessary to secure a conviction against the person considered to be the main actor.
He added that the fight against illegal mining should focus on holding influential figures accountable rather than only prosecuting those working under them.
