The Republic has officially closed its case in the ongoing criminal trial involving Akonta Mining Company Limited and two other accused persons over alleged illegal mining activities in the Tano-Nimire Forest Reserve.
The development occurred earlier today at the Accra Criminal Court, where state prosecutors and investigators from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service concluded the presentation of evidence in support of the prosecution’s case.
Three Witnesses Testify in Akonta Mining Case
According to an update on the proceedings, the prosecution called three witnesses during the trial. They included two former employees of Akonta Mining Company Limited and a detective from the Ghana Police Service.
The two former employees reportedly testified about Bernard Antwi-Boasiako’s alleged involvement in illegal mining operations within the Tano-Nimire Forest Reserve.
The police detective also presented drone footage, audiovisual recordings and official communications as evidence to support the testimonies provided by the former employees.
The prosecution relied on the witness testimonies and documentary materials to establish its case concerning the alleged illegal mining activities in the protected forest reserve.
Accused Persons Deny Links to Illegal Mining Activities
During cross-examination, the accused persons’ legal representatives challenged the prosecution’s witnesses and sought to distance their clients from mining activities in the Tano-Nimire Forest Reserve.
Following the closure of the prosecution’s case, counsel for the accused persons requested permission from the court to recall the first prosecution witness for further cross-examination.
The court directed the defence counsel to file a formal application by Friday, October 30, 2026, seeking permission to recall the witness.
Court Adjourns Akonta Mining Trial to November 4
The court has adjourned the case to November 4, 2026, when the application to recall the prosecution witness is expected to be heard.
The next sitting is expected to determine whether the defence will be permitted to conduct further cross-examination of the witness.
The case forms part of Ghana’s broader efforts to address alleged illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and protect the country’s forest reserves and natural resources.
The allegations against the accused persons remain subject to determination by the court.
Source: newsthemegh.com