The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has issued a strong warning to the public against encroaching on its lands, particularly near critical nuclear research and waste management facilities.

In a statement released on March 18, 2025, the Director of Commercialisation and Communication Directorate at GAEC, Anthony Nana Boateng, revealed that unidentified individuals have illegally broken through barricades securing portions of its land behind the Bohye Police Base Workshop and Ga-East Hospital.

It said hese intruders have reportedly begun grading large sections of the land, which has been designated for the construction of an Electron Beam Irradiation Facility.

"The land in question is government-owned and earmarked for a crucial facility that will support sustainable agriculture and enhance national food security," Mr Boateng said.

"This facility will help preserve food, reduce post-harvest losses, and sterilize essential medical and consumer products."

The Commission also raised concerns over increasing encroachments near the National Nuclear Waste Management Centre, where hazardous radioactive waste is stored under strict regulatory compliance.

GAEC warned that these illegal activities pose serious safety and security risks to both the facility and nearby communities.

"The safety of residents in the immediate vicinity is under significant threat if this encroachment is not addressed," part of the statement read.

"Ghana has a global reputation for safe nuclear research, and continued land encroachment could harm our standing with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the international community."

Mr Boateng reaffirmed that the land was legally secured by the Government of Ghana through an Executive Instrument (E.I. 75) in 1973 and remains under state protection.

The Commission called on law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to intervene and prevent further unauthorised developments.

"We urge the public not to purchase land from unauthorized sellers and to respect the legal status of GAEC property," Mr Boateng stated.

"Safeguarding these lands is critical to ensuring the peaceful and beneficial use of nuclear science for Ghana’s development."