By Joyce Danso, GNA
Accra, Jan. 15, GNA – An Accra High Court has granted bail to Mr Kwadwo Owusu Bempah, Operations Manager of Akonta Mining Limited, after he appeared before the court on Wednesday.
Mr Bempah was admitted to bail in the sum of GH¢10 million with three sureties, one to be justified.
He was also ordered to deposit his passport at the Registry of the court.
When the State first arraigned Mr Bempah, Mr Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, and three others before the court last year, Mr Bempah was said to be at large.
However, following his recent arrest, he appeared before the court on January 14, 2026, after being granted police enquiry bail.
Counsel for Mr Bempah, Mr Andrew Votia, told the court that his client had voluntarily reported to the Police three weeks ago.
Mr Bempah has denied charges of undertaking mining operations without a licence, abetting the erection of structures in a forest reserve, and abetting the felling of trees in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve.
He is standing trial together with Mr Antwi Boasiako, the owner of Akonta Mining; Mr Edward Akuoko, General Manager of the company; and Mr Kwame Antwi, who is currently at large.
The prosecution informed the trial judge, Justice Ruby Aryeetey, that Mr Akuoko would be used as a prosecution witness.
Consequently, charges against him were withdrawn.
Chairman Wontumi has earlier denied similar charges and was also granted bail in the sum of GH¢10 million.
The case has been adjourned to February 17, 2026.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe