The Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, aka Chairman Wontumi, has denied allegations linking him to illegal mining activities, locally referred to as galamsey.

Speaking to the media following an interrogation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, he said he had submitted his official documents to demonstrate that his mining operations are legitimate.

“I was invited by the police and charged with being involved in galamsey. I presented my license to them to prove that I do not engage in illegal mining or galamsey.

"They also claimed I was working in the forest, but I told them it wasn’t me. If they have any evidence, they should show it to me,” he stated.

He went on to clarify that although he had previously applied to operate in a forested area, he was informed by the Forestry Commission, Lands Commission, and Minerals Commission that the land in question was protected.

“So, if anyone is working there now, I am not aware of it,” he added.

Chairman Wontumi also rejected claims that he had received a payment of GH¢50 million from the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) during the final days of the Akufo-Addo administration.

These reports, he said, were completely unfounded and politically motivated.

The allegation centres on supposed payments made to Wontumi’s firm, Hallmark Engineering, despite a directive from then-incoming Chief of Staff Julius Debrah to freeze contract disbursements during the transition.

Chairman Wontumi maintains that he was not involved in any such financial transaction, adding that those making such claims should provide proof.