By Francis Kobena Tandoh
The Eastern Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has condemned, in the strongest terms, the violent assault on Peace 104.3 FM’s Eastern Regional Correspondent in the course of performing his duties, according to a statement on Monday.
According to the statement, the journalist, Michael Akrofi, was assaulted by a Police Officer stationed at the Tafo-Kukurantumi Formed Police Unit (FPU) of the base during a demonstration by farmers at Kukurantumi in the Eastern Region, according to a statement on Monday.
The Journalist, who was said to be lawfully covering a protest by farmers against the destruction of their crops by Fulani herdsmen and their cattle, was allegedly attacked from behind by the police officer, who strangled his neck on three separate occasions. The officer further threatened the journalist after the assault.
As a result of the attack, the journalist complained of pains in the neck, back, and waist and had to seek medical attention at a health facility. The matter has since been formally reported to the Eastern Regional Police Command. However, as of the time of issuing this statement, no response or feedback has been given to the victim.
“The GJA finds this act not only barbaric and unprofessional but a direct attack on press freedom and the constitutional right of journalists to work without fear, intimidation, or violence. Journalists play a critical role in informing the public, especially during tense situations such as demonstrations, and must be protected, not assaulted by security personnel,” read the statement.
“We therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police and the Eastern Regional Police Command to immediately investigate this incident and ensure that the officer involved is identified and brought to book in accordance with the law. Acts of impunity by security officers against journalists must not be tolerated,” it added.
The GJA urged the need for stronger collaboration and cooperation between journalists and security agencies. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
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