Abuakwa: A Presiding Judge of the Kwadaso circuit court has issued a stern warning against the multiple sale of lands, emphasizing that individuals accused of such acts will face legal consequences. Mr. Jephthah Appau, a Relieving Judge of the Asante Abuakwa circuit court in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality, highlighted the court's commitment to combating the issue of multiple land sales in the region.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Appau made these remarks during a court session where a 46-year-old farmer was charged with allegedly granting land without title. The judge underscored that any person involved in multiple land sales within his jurisdiction would be penalized in accordance with the law to serve as a deterrent to others. He noted that granting land without title not only violates section 277 (2A) of the Lands Act 2020, Act 1036, but also causes distress to buyers and tarnishes the reputation of traditional authorities who own the lands.
The defendant, Nana Kofi Adade, also known as Biney Solomon, did not enter a plea and was remanded into prison custody. He is scheduled to reappear before the court on September 12, while investigations are ongoing.
Police Detective Inspector Alexander Agbekpornu informed the court that last year, Nana Adade sold plot number 45 to Bernard Owusu Sarpong for GHC 46,000.00 without title. This plot had already been acquired by the complainant, Yaa Amankwah, from the late Nana Sarfo Akumah Abasi in 2001 for GHC 3,000.00, complete with an allocation paper and site plan.
Prosecution revealed that in April, the complainant discovered that her plot had been cleared, along with her construction materials valued at GHC 39,460 and her one-bedroom foundation worth GHC 3,500, which were damaged. Owusu Sarpong reportedly purchased the land from Nana Adade and Akwasi Anane, the latter now at large, and proceeded to clear it. A report was subsequently filed with the Abuakwa police.
Nana Adade was apprehended and, following preliminary investigations, was charged and presented before the court.
