Former Western Regional Minister Okyere Darko-Mensah admits to having no knowledge of Wontumi–Okum concession deal

Former Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah has been discharged by the court after testifying as the third defence witness in the ongoing trial involving Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi.

During his testimony, Darko-Mensah told the court that he had no personal knowledge of any agreement or communication between Wontumi and prosecution witness Henry Okum, who allegedly conducted mining activities on a concession linked to Akonta Mining at Samreboi.

Wontumi, the former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), is facing charges related to the alleged assignment of mining rights without ministerial approval and facilitating illegal mining operations on a concession in the Western Region.

Testifying before the court, Darko-Mensah, who also served as Chairman of the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC), confirmed that Akonta Mining had submitted formal complaints regarding illegal miners operating on its concession.

According to him, the complaints were officially documented and processed through established REGSEC procedures. He explained that the reports were consistent with several complaints received from mining concession holders across the region concerning organised groups engaging in illegal mining activities.

The former minister stated that Akonta Mining informed the Security Council that unauthorised individuals had invaded its concession and were carrying out mining activities without the company's consent or approval.

He noted that the complaints outlined the extent of the illegal activities, identified affected portions of the concession, and provided details of individuals allegedly involved where available.

However, under cross-examination by Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai, Darko-Mensah admitted that he was unaware of any direct interaction between Wontumi and Henry Okum.

When questioned about whether Wontumi had authorised Okum to operate on the concession, he repeatedly stated that he had no personal knowledge of any such arrangement.

“I have no information,” he told the court when asked about the nature of the relationship between the two men.

The court also admitted into evidence a supplementary witness statement filed by Darko-Mensah as part of the defence's case.

Defence lawyers are expected to present their next witness when proceedings resume on June 3.