News
Aide to Wontumi Convicted in Galamsey Bribery Case
The High Court yesterday convicted Thomas Andy Owusu, aide to NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (popularly known as Chairman Wontumi), in a corruption case tied to illegal mining licensing.
Mr.Owusu, the second accused in the case of The Republic v. Charles Bissue & Another, was convicted on his own plea after the Court accepted a plea agreement entered under section 71 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959).
The charge was based on Corruption of a Public Officer and Accepting Bribe to Influence a Public Officer.
This case stems from the 2019 “Galamsey Fraud Part One” investigation by Tiger Eye PI, which implicated Owusu and then-presidential staffer Charles Bissue in facilitating illegal mining licences for bribes, bypassing official processes.
According to the agreement, Owusu will pay:
- A fine of 500 penalty units (equivalent to GHS 6,000), and
- Restitution of GHS 200,000 to the state.
For taking GHS 15,000 as his compensation so that he can influence a public officer to bypass the licencing requirements.
Following his conviction, the court struck out the two charges against him- Corruption of a Public Officer and Accepting Bribe to Influence a Public Officer.
Mr.Owusu’s conviction narrows the case to focus solely on the first accused, Charles Bissue, accused of Using Public Office for Profit, contrary to section 179C(b) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
His trial will continue on 10 June 2025 with a scheduled Case Management Conference.
Government has inaugurated a Technical Committee to drive the implementation of the Accra Marine Drive Tourism Investment Project, a key initiative aimed at transforming the capital’s waterfront into a world-class tourism and commercial hub.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the move as a critical step to accelerate progress, stressing the need for efficiency, collaboration, and accountability.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah, will coordinate stakeholders, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely delivery of the project.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has stepped up its fire safety education efforts in Suhum Municipality and Abetifi Odwenease as part of ongoing campaigns to prevent fire outbreaks and improve emergency readiness.
In Suhum, fire officers engaged traders and customers, educating them on handling LPG leakages, proper use of fire extinguishers, and general shop safety practices. Meanwhile, the Kwahu East Command extended outreach in Abetifi Odwenease, visiting homes, drinking spots, construction sites, and stores to promote safe handling of flammable materials, proper electrical usage, and correct gas cylinder placement.
Practical demonstrations on fire extinguisher use were conducted, and residents were encouraged to adopt good housekeeping habits and proactive safety measures to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
