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Ex-Akonta Mining Manager Testifies Wontumi Ordered Permitless Mining in Ghana Forest Reserve

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Chairman Wontumi directed us to mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without a permit – Former Akonta Mining GM
Chairman Wontumi and Edward Akuoko of Akonta mining.
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Edward Akwasi Akuoko (Edward Akuoko), the former General Manager of Akonta Mining Company Limited, has publicly stated that Bernard Antwi Boasiako (popularly known as Chairman Wontumi), the owner of the company and Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), directed mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without the necessary permits. Akuoko made these claims in media interviews on November 5, 2025, after the Attorney General withdrew all charges against him on November 3, 2025, in exchange for him becoming a state prosecution witness in the ongoing case against Wontumi and Akonta Mining. http://newsghana.com.gh

 

Key Details from Akuoko’s Statements

  • He admitted that Akonta Mining “failed to complete necessary documentation” for operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, and this will form part of his upcoming testimony.
  • Akuoko explicitly alleged: “Chairman Wontumi directed us to move in and mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve without a mining permit.”
  • He decided to testify out of “personal interest,” citing advice that Wontumi might receive a presidential pardon if convicted (due to political connections), while he (Akuoko) could be “abandoned” and jailed.
  • He also claimed NPP leaders showed solidarity only toward Wontumi during their arrests, ignoring him.
  • Akuoko insisted he would “speak the truth” and not lie against Wontumi, emphasizing his decision was about doing “what is right” rather than betrayal.

 

Background on the Case

Wontumi, Akonta Mining, and others (including two at large) face allegations of mining without a license, felling trees in a forest reserve without authorization, erecting structures illegally, and causing environmental damage to over 13 hectares of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve (including polluting the Tano River) in 2022.

Court Updates: Two related cases are ongoing.

  1.  (Samreboi concession) is adjourned to November 12, 2025.
  2. The Tano Nimiri case to December 4, 2025.

Wontumi has pleaded not guilty and is on bail (GHS 15 million for one case, GHS 10 million for the other).

Historical Context:

  • Akonta Mining’s license was revoked in April 2025 over illegal operations.
  • Wontumi has denied wrongdoing, claiming the company halted operations years ago and accusing political targeting.
  • His lawyer says Akuoko’s testimony won’t significantly impact the case.http://yen.com.gh

 

This development has sparked widespread discussion on socials and in Ghanaian media, with many viewing it as a major blow to Wontumi amid the country’s anti-galamsey (illegal mining) efforts.

Akuoko has not yet testified in court; his full evidence is expected in upcoming hearings. The case highlights ongoing tensions over political figures’ involvement in mining and environmental destruction in Ghana.

 

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Sarah Adwoa Safo Endorses Bawumia Over Father of Her Children in NPP Race

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> The NPP is preparing for an internal flagbearer contest following its 2024 loss to the NDC.

> Bawumia (former Vice President) and Agyapong (Assin Central MP) are seen as leading contenders, echoing their 2023 primary matchup where Bawumia won decisively.

> Safo and Agyapong had a past romantic relationship that produced the two children; Safo is currently married to Hanny Mouhtiseb (since 2019).

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Sarah Adwoa Safo
former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo.
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On December 15, 2025, former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo publicly endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer for the upcoming leadership race (ahead of the 2028 elections), explicitly stating her political future lies with him rather than Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

Key Details from Her Statements

  • Safo declared: “It is time for Bawumia” and tied her political prospects to his leadership.
  • She openly acknowledged sharing two children (a son and a daughter) with Kennedy Agyapong, a fellow NPP heavyweight and potential rival contender.
  • Despite this personal connection, she emphasized: “This is not a matter of family and friends in the NPP party.” She expressed concerns that her career could be at risk under an Agyapong presidency, while denying any personal animosity toward him.
  • Safo defended Bawumia against blame for the NPP’s 2024 electoral defeat and economic challenges, arguing he was not the finance minister and lacked overriding authority (likening his role to a “driver’s mate”).

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32 Nigerians Arrested in Ghana Over Romance Scam as Authorities Intensify Cybercrime Crackdown and What You Need to Know

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Nigerians Nabbed
32 Nigerians Arrested in Ghana Over Romance Scam
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Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA), in a joint intelligence-led operation with National Security operatives, conducted an early morning raid in Kasoa Tuba (Central Region) On Saturday December 13, 2025; this resulted in the arrest of 32 Nigerian nationals suspected of running an organized romance scam syndicate.

The operation seized devices like laptops and phones, which are now undergoing forensic analysis. This announcement came from Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, who praised the Cyber Security Agency and described it as “another massive blow against cybercrime in Ghana.

Hon. Sam George

Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, in a appreciation post on X to CSA

He emphasized the government’s commitment to making Ghana an “unattractive destination for cybercrimes” and urged public support for security agencies to protect the country’s reputation. This arrest is part of Ghana’s intensified crackdown on cybercrime in 2025, following similar operations, including INTERPOL-coordinated efforts across Africa that led to hundreds of arrests for romance scams and extortion.

What Are Romance Scams and Why Do You Need to Know?

Romance scams (also known as “online dating scams” or “confidence fraud”) are a form of cybercrime where fraudsters create fake profiles on dating sites, social media, or apps to build emotional relationships with victims. Once trust is established, they invent excuses (e.g., medical emergencies, travel costs, or investment opportunities) to request money, gifts, or financial information.

 

Key facts and red flags:

  • Common tactics: Scammers often pose as attractive professionals (e.g., military personnel, doctors, or businessmen) abroad. They quickly profess love, avoid video calls or in-person meetings, and pressure victims for urgent financial help.
  • Victims: Frequently target elderly or lonely individuals, but anyone can fall prey. In many cases, victims are from Western countries (e.g., US, UK), with losses running into millions globally.
  • Global impact: The FBI reported over $1 billion in losses from romance scams in the US alone in recent years. In Africa, Nigeria and Ghana have been identified as hubs, though operations often involve international networks.
  • Why it’s rising: Easy access to the internet, anonymity online, and economic pressures drive participation. Some scammers justify it as “retribution” or economic necessity, but it’s illegal and causes severe emotional and financial harm.

How to protect yourself:

    • Never send money to someone you’ve only met online.
    • Verify identities (reverse image search photos, insist on video chats).
    • Be wary of sob stories or requests for wire transfers, gift cards, or crypto.
    • Report suspicions to authorities (e.g., FBI’s IC3 in the US or local cybercrime units).

This incident highlights how cybercrime networks exploit borders, but also shows increasing international and regional cooperation to combat them. Stay vigilant online—trust is earned slowly, especially in digital relationships.

 

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SAD NEWS: Tragic Death of Popular Ghanaian Influencer Columbia 1K in East Legon Crash

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Columbia 1k
Popular Ghanaian social media personality and businessman Godwin, widely known as Columbia 1K,
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Ghanaian social media personality and businessman Godwin, widely known as Columbia 1K, has tragically died following a severe car accident in East Legon, Accra. The incident occurred on Thursday, December 11, 2025, when Columbia 1K’s white Honda Civic collided with another vehicle at a traffic light. Various reports indicate he died at the scene before medical help could arrive.

Columbia 1K was renowned for showcasing his flashy lifestyle on platforms like TikTok, where he often highlighted luxury items, including phones—earning him a reputation in some circles as a phone dealer or enthusiast. His content attracted a large following, with fans drawn to his extravagant displays.

News of his passing broke on Friday, December 12, with friends and fans sharing emotional tributes online. One close associate, Junior Tee, posted a heartfelt video recalling their time together. Videos circulating from the scene show the mangled remains of his luxury vehicle, underscoring the severity of the crash.

 

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