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Ghanaian pilgrims warned against drug offenses, money laundering, and illegal routes ahead of Hajj
via GhanaWeb4 min read
Ghana鈥檚 Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Alhaji Said Sinare, has issued a stern warning to Ghanaian pilgrims preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage, scheduled from May 1 to May 20, 2026. In an official statement dated April 21, 2026, the embassy emphasized that pilgrims must strictly adhere to Saudi laws and regulations. The warning specifically highlighted Saudi Arabia鈥檚 uncompromising stance on drug-related offenses, money laundering, and illegal entry. The embassy stated that individuals found in possession, trafficking, or concealment of prohibited drugs, or involved in illicit financial activities, will face immediate arrest, prosecution, and severe penalties. Pilgrims were also cautioned against carrying luggage, money, or items on behalf of others without proper verification, as this could lead to serious legal consequences. The statement urged all pilgrims to travel through approved Hajj arrangements, ensure valid travel documents, and conduct themselves with discipline and dignity to reflect Ghana's values.
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The New Patriotic Party NPP has accused the Mahama administration of attempting to use the conviction of its Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, as a political "trophy." In a statement dated July 20, 2026, the NPP argued that Wontumi's conviction should not be celebrated as proof of the government's commitment to fighting illegal mining, claiming that similar allegations involving individuals linked to the governing National Democratic Congress NDC have not received the same attention. The party alleged selective application of justice, questioning why investigations into illegal mining activities involving some NDC officials have not progressed with similar urgency. The NPP stated that the prosecution failed to provide evidence that Wontumi unlawfully assigned or transferred his mineral concession, asserting that the conviction was based on assumptions rather than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Describing the judgment as a "travesty of justice," the NPP announced that its legal team had begun the process of appealing the High Court鈥檚 decision and reaffirmed its support for Chairman Wontumi, maintaining he was wrongfully convicted and calling him a "political prisoner."
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Must ReadPrivate legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has characterized the 20-year prison sentence given to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, as a "victory for Ghana." Speaking on Asempa FM, Kpebu clarified that the conviction was based on evidence, not solely a confession. He explained that assigning mineral rights or giving out land without proper written approval constitutes an offense under Ghana's mining laws. Kpebu emphasized that the court's judgment was supported by evidence presented during cross-examination. He also noted that mining operators must follow established procedures for land reclamation, including working with the Minerals Commission. Kpebu expressed his expectation for more convictions of individuals involved in illegal mining. These comments follow Chairman Wontumi's sentencing to 20 years with hard labor after his conviction in an illegal mining case related to Akonta Mining Company Limited.