The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has launched investigations into the alleged illegal sale and lease of railway lands and buildings in parts of the Western, Western North and Ashanti Regions, warning that perpetrators could face legal action.
The Authority said it had uncovered reports that some individuals, including former employees of the defunct Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL), were engaging in unauthorised transactions involving railway properties without the approval of the GRDA.
According to the Authority, the alleged transactions violate the Railways Act, 2008 (Act 779) and the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which govern the management and disposal of railway assets.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 29, the GRDA revealed that investigations had also identified attempts by some individuals to backdate transaction documents in an effort to give the deals an appearance of legitimacy.
The Authority stressed that it would not recognise or regularise any lease agreements or transactions involving railway lands and buildings that were undertaken without its official approval.
It said such transactions also contravene government directives on the disposal of public lands and state assets.
The GRDA urged members of the public to exercise caution and verify ownership and transaction approvals with the Authority before purchasing or leasing any railway property.
“Any person who engages in such unauthorised transactions does so entirely at his or her own risk,” the Authority warned.
The Authority said it was working with relevant state institutions to investigate the alleged illegal activities and would pursue legal action against anyone found culpable.
It reiterated that only transactions formally approved by the Ghana Railway Development Authority would be considered valid, and advised prospective buyers and tenants to conduct thorough due diligence before entering into any agreements involving railway lands and buildings.
