Kpebu, Ashigbey petition Ghana Police over delayed investigation into Akonta Mining

Prominent lawyer Martin Kpebu and Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey have petitioned the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, expressing frustration over the prolonged delay in investigating Akonta Mining Ltd and its chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, for alleged illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

In a letter dated February 24, 2025, and addressed to COP Faustina Andoh-Kwofie, the two complainants reminded the CID that they had initially filed their petition on October 13, 2022.

However, since then, they have received little to no updates on the progress of the investigations. The only engagement they had with the authorities was a meeting sometime in 2023, and subsequent attempts—including a follow-up letter in 2024—to seek further information have been unsuccessful.

Allegations against Akonta Mining

Akonta Mining and its chairman, Wontumi (Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP) , have been at the center of controversy for allegedly engaging in illegal mining operations within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, in violation of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995). These allegations have fueled public outcry, with civil society groups and environmental advocates calling for stricter enforcement of mining laws to protect Ghana’s natural resources.

Kpebu and Ashigbey have expressed concerns that the case appears to be unnecessarily stalling, raising questions about the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold those responsible accountable.

“We urge you to kindly update us on the case at your earliest convenience,” the petition read, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in handling the matter.

The letter was also copied to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the media, signaling the petitioners’ intention to ensure that the issue remains in the public domain.

Illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey”, has been a major issue in Ghana, contributing to environmental degradation, deforestation, and water pollution. The government has, over the years, launched various campaigns to curb illegal mining, but enforcement has been inconsistent, with critics arguing that politically connected individuals often escape prosecution.

The post Kpebu, Ashigbey petition Ghana Police over delayed investigation into Akonta Mining first appeared on 3News.

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