The Attorney General has filed a notice to discontinue prosecution against Mr. Edward Akuoko, General Manager of Akonta Mining Company Limited.
The decision follows Mr. Akuoko’s offer to testify for the state in the ongoing trial involving Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, who is facing charges related to alleged illegal mining in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in 2022.
Mr. Akuoko, the fourth accused, and Mr. Boasiako, along with other individuals, were charged with engaging in mining activities without authorisation from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources.
The charges included felling over 300 merchantable trees, constructing unauthorised structures, and aiding unlicensed mining operations.
Both Mr. Boasiako and Mr. Akuoko have denied the charges and are currently on bail in the sum of GHC10 million each.
Two other accused persons, identified as Kwame Antwi and Kwadwo Owusu Bempah, are reportedly at large.
The Attorney General’s notice of withdrawal, dated November 3, 2025, was signed by Deputy Attorney General Dr Justice Srem-Sai.
It stated: “Take Notice that the Honourable Attorney General has, pursuant to Section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), withdrawn Edward Akuoko, the 4th Accused person herein, from prosecution in respect of all charges brought against him in this case.”
GNA
