Wontumi’s illness likely psychological — Security Consultant suggests

Security consultant Richard Kumadoe has commented on the illness of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. He believes the psychological stress from serious allegations may have caused his health issues.

Kumadoe spoke on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, May 31. He noted that Wontumi's collapse during questioning by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) was expected. The weight of the charges against him is significant.

Kumadoe explained that being arrested and not sleeping at home can lead to illness. He also mentioned that Wontumi's business ties to NPP-NDC politics add to this stress.

The allegations against Wontumi include fraud, money laundering, and cross-border crimes. Kumadoe stated these charges can have a severe psychological impact, especially if some are true.

He said, “If you know many of these charges are true, you will fall sick.” Knowing he could be detained in a secure facility adds to this anxiety.

Chairman Wontumi was taken to a hospital on Tuesday, May 27 after falling ill during EOCO questioning in Accra. His lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, confirmed this incident.

Earlier that day, Wontumi had been arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. EOCO later took over for a separate investigation into alleged financial crimes.

Wontumi was granted bail on Wednesday, May 28 with conditions set at GH₵50 million and two sureties. However, despite claims from his lawyers that these conditions were met, he remained in custody as of Saturday, May 31.

His continued detention has led to protests from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Minority MPs staged a sit-in at EOCO’s headquarters on Thursday, May 29. They claim his arrest is politically motivated and part of intimidation efforts.

Kumadoe described these protests as “unreasonable.” He insists EOCO acted lawfully and that Wontumi’s condition reflects the seriousness of the allegations rather than mistreatment.