Rans Logistics has refunded GH¢19.1 million to the state after being cited for overpayments in the transportation of grains, according to the Auditor-General’s report on GH¢68 billion in arrears.

Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem disclosed the development at a sitting of the Public Accounts Committee on Monday, 30 March, describing it as early proof that the audit is yielding results.

“I just want to give one example to show the importance of the audit to us as a nation,” he told the Committee.

Mr Ampem explained that the findings were first presented to Parliament on 10 March, along with referrals for further scrutiny, noting that within a week, one of the companies named in the report had acted.

“Exactly a week after, on 17 March, one of the companies identified with some of the infractions responded,” he said.

“Rans Logistics was the company stated to have been overpaid for the transportation of grains. Exactly a week after the presentation, the company has refunded GH¢19.1 million to the state.”

He added that the refund does not cover the full extent of what was flagged in the audit.

“If you look at the audit revelations, it is not just the GH¢19.1 million that were cited. It was also stated that the company was paid with rice in excess of 7,000 metric tonnes. So we are expecting the value of 7,000 metric tonnes of rice as well,” he explained.

According to the Deputy Minister, further action is being considered to address all identified breaches.

“The Attorney-General is working with his team to recommend the right course of action for all these infractions that have been identified,” he stated.

Mr Ampem said the development highlights the value of the Auditor-General’s work in safeguarding public resources.

“This shows that the audit was necessary. The audit was intended, and is beginning, to achieve its purpose of saving and protecting public funds,” he said.