This Is Why EOCO Mishandled Chairman Wontumi’s Arrest

Lawyer Martin Kpebu has publicly criticised the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for what he perceives as its mishandling of the arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. Appearing on Asempa FM’s ‘Ekosii Sen’ programme, Kpebu argued that EOCO’s actions were self-inflicted, leading to the controversy surrounding Wontumi’s detention.

He said, the manner in which he was arrested, detained, and how their drone landed in Chairman Wontumi’s home were all instances of mishandled events.

Martin Kpebu said, all of these things could have been accomplished without drawing attention or controversy.

Kpebu’s criticism stems from a broader context of frustration with the authorities’ inaction regarding allegations against Wontumi. He and others had previously petitioned the police over illegal mining activities by Wontumi’s company, Akonta Mining Ltd, in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. Despite submitting petitions in October 2022 and February 2025, they reported no significant progress in the investigation, leading to accusations of political interference and a culture of impunity.

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Kpebu’s remarks highlight a recurring theme in his advocacy: The need for accountability and transparency in addressing illegal mining activities and the alleged involvement of politically connected individuals. His criticism of EOCO reflects a broader concern about the effectiveness and independence of state institutions in tackling organised crime and corruption.

The controversy surrounding Wontumi’s arrest underscores ongoing tensions between law enforcement agencies, political figures, and civil society in Ghana’s efforts to combat illegal mining.