Samuel Addo, a reporter with Class Media Group, has reported to the police that he was physically attacked by officers from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) while working. The incident took place as he was covering a fire outbreak at the Kasoa New Market.
According to Addo’s account, after reporting on the fire for a morning show, he went to the local fire station to get the GNFS perspective on events. While trying to record footage of an alleged confrontation between firefighters and civilians, he was approached by a GNFS officer. Addo said he identified himself as a journalist, and the officer initially walked away, only to return moments later with around ten colleagues.
Addo claims the group seized him, held him by the neck, pulled his hands behind his back, and assaulted him. He also says they took his phone and tore his belt. Although his phone was later returned with the help of the local Member of Parliament, Phyllis Naa Koryor, Addo discovered that GHS 10,200 was missing from the GHS 20,000 he had been carrying.
The journalist has obtained a police medical form and plans to seek treatment for his injuries. He has lodged a formal police complaint, and the police are now investigating the case.
This alleged assault has sparked concern about the safety of media workers and has drawn attention to how security personnel interact with journalists on duty.
0 Comments