Chairman Wontumi to appear before CID today after failed arrest attempt

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, will report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) today. This is scheduled for Monday, May 26, 2025.

His appearance follows a failed arrest attempt by National Security and police officers last Friday. The operation drew a large security presence to his home. It sparked outrage among NPP supporters who protested against what they called intimidation.

The motive for the attempted arrest is still unclear. However, Wontumi assured officers he would voluntarily present himself today.

His lawyer, Kwame Adom Appiah, confirmed their readiness to cooperate with the police. He stated that Wontumi is not someone who hides or flees. Appiah emphasized that Wontumi has significant investments in Ghana and intends to stay.

“They asked us to appear today,” Appiah said. “We have done nothing criminal and have nothing to fear.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for the Interior Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi defended the security forces' actions. He insisted that the operation followed national security protocols.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News, Terlabi dismissed claims of political motivation. He emphasized that the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) acted within its legal mandate.

“The National Security will not go to Wontumi’s house without cause,” he said. “Let’s allow the security agencies to perform their duties.”

In response to Wontumi's claims of harassment, Terlabi rejected these allegations. He suggested that Wontumi was trying to portray himself as a victim.

“He’s playing the victim card,” Terlabi said. “The team went there to invite him, not attack him.”

As this political and legal situation unfolds, many are watching closely. Today's appearance at the CID could have significant implications for both Wontumi and the ruling party.