By Joyce Danso
Accra, Aug. 25, GNA – The Accra Turf Club has condemned what it described as the forceful entry, trespass, demolition and takeover of its facility by a group of armed men.
In a statement issued in Accra, the Club appealed to President John Dramani Mahama, the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and the National Security Coordinator to intervene in the matter.
The statement called on the authorities to eject alleged land grabbers and encroachers from the Accra Turf Club premises and restore the Club’s possession and access to the property.
According to the Club, such intervention was necessary to enable horse racing activities in Ghana to continue without disruption.
The statement also urged the relevant authorities to halt any attempt by the Lands Commission to effect what it described as the unlawful transfer of, or interference with, land earmarked for the Accra Turf Club.
Additionally, the Club called on stakeholders to investigate the circumstances surrounding the demolition that occurred on August 22, 2026, and ensure that persons found culpable of any unlawful acts were brought to justice.
The statement alleged that on August 22, about 200-armed men, including some police officers and led by individuals identified as Clement Dzato and Azumah, entered the premises of the Accra Race Course.
It claimed that the group caused extensive damage to property, including about 100 horse stables, buildings, water storage facilities, vegetation and utility installations.
The Club further alleged that the group forced horses out of their stables and blocked all entrances to the race course.
According to the statement, the Accra Turf Club was established in 1923 and had since played a significant role in promoting horse racing as an important sporting and social activity in the country.
It said the Club’s occupation of the Borteyman site was rooted in a long history of horse racing in Accra dating back to the late 19th century.
The statement expressed the hope that the matter would be addressed promptly to safeguard the future of horse racing and protect the Club’s investments and operations.
Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Joyce Danso
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