Wontumi Arrest: Police launch investigation into alleged assault on journalist by NPP supporters
Latif Iddrisu was assaulted by alleged NPP supporters at the EOCO head office on Tuesday night
The Greater Accra Regional Police Command has initiated investigations into the alleged assault of a Joy FM journalist, Latif Iddrisu, by supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the arrest of Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi. The incident occurred on 27 May 2025 at the premises of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra.
According to a press release issued by the Regional Public Affairs Unit of the Ghana Police Service on 28 May 2025, signed by Ms Juliana Obeng, Superintendent and Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Region, the Regional Command is reviewing all available evidence, including video recordings and eyewitness testimonies, to establish the facts of the case and identify individuals responsible for the assault.
"The Ghana Police Service reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rights of all individuals, including members of the media, and ensuring that the rule of law is maintained throughout our operations," the statement said.
The assault on Iddrisu reportedly took place amid protests by NPP supporters outside EOCO’s office, which escalated into clashes with security personnel following Wontumi’s detention.
Wontumi was arrested and detained by EOCO on 27 May 2025, after reporting to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in Accra.
The arrest followed a failed attempt to apprehend him on 23 May 2025, and came amid an intense interrogation by the police CID over allegations of illegal mining activities.
However, details behind his EOCO arrest remain scarce, even though his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, has disclosed that it is related to Wontumi’s dealings with Exim Bank.
Appiah-Kubi also disclosed that Wontumi has been served a writ of summons by Exim Bank, adding to his legal challenges.
Wontumi reportedly took ill after undergoing intense interrogation at EOCO on Tuesday, leading to his hospitalisation.
According to reports, Wontumi was granted bail in the sum of GHC50 million by EOCO on Wednesday but failed to meet the bail conditions, warranting his continued stay in EOCO custody.
