State Closes Case Against Akonta Mining in Illegal Mining Trial

Acconta Mining Company Limited and two accused individuals faced charges in connection with alleged illegal mining activities in the Tano-Nimire Forest Reserve, as announced by Deputy Attorney General Ashiadey Dotse on Tuesday, October 27, 2026. During the trial at the Accra Criminal Court, the prosecution called three witnesses to bolster their case.

These witnesses comprised two former employees of the mining company and a detective from the Ghana Police Service. The former employees provided testimony regarding Bernard Antwi-Boasiako's alleged involvement in the unlawful mining operations within the forest reserve. Moreover, the police detective presented drone footage, audiovisual materials, and official communications as substantiating evidence.

Justice Srem-Sai noted that the accused individuals attempted to distance themselves from any mining activities within the Tano-Nimire Forest Reserve during cross-examination. Following the closure of the prosecution's case, the defense counsel sought permission to recall the first prosecution witness for additional cross-examination, with the court granting a deadline of Friday, October 30, 2026, to submit a formal motion for consideration.

The case has been adjourned to November 4, 2026, for the court to review the motion, marking the conclusion of the prosecution's evidence presentation. The next steps in the trial are anticipated to be determined by the court at the forthcoming hearing.