A former General Manager of Akonta Mining Company has taken the witness stand to testify against his ex-boss in the Tano Nimiri forest illegal mining case.

Edward Akuoko, the prosecution’s first witness, was previously an accused person in the case against NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

He was discharged after opting to testify for the state.

The Charges leveled against the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman  includes, allegedly undertaking mining operations without a license, felling trees in a forest reserve without authorization.

Abetting the unauthorized felling of trees and erecting buildings in a forest reserve without approval.

Prosecution led by   Nana Ama Prempeh, a Senior State Attorney, said they had filed an additional exhibit which was omitted from the process.

Justice Ruby Aryeetey granted the request and adjourned the case to April 30, 2026, for Akuoko to begin his evidence-in-chief.