Eastern Region GJA condemns assault on Peace FM’s journalist  

The Eastern Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has condemned the violent assault on Peace FM’S Eastern Regional Correspondent, Mr. Michael Akrofi, by a Police Officer stationed at the Tafo–Kukurantumi Formed Police Unit (FPU) base. 

The incident happened during a demonstration by farmers at Kukurantumi. 

A statement issued by Mr. Stephen Ampen Darko Koranteng, Eastern Regional Chairman of the GJA, and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Koforidua, said the journalist, who was 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. 

The officer strangled his neck on three separate occasions, and threatened the journalist after the assault. 

The statement said as a result of the attack, the journalist complained of pain in the neck, back, and waist and had to seek medical treatment at a health facility.  

The matter has since been formally reported to the Eastern Regional Police Command, and as of the time of issuing this statement, no response or feedback had been given to the victim.It said ” 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.”It said Journalists played a critical role in informing the public, especially during tense situations such as demonstrations, and must be protected, not assaulted by security personnel. “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,” the statement noted. The association emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration and cooperation between journalists and security agencies.  

It said mutual respect, understanding of roles, and adherence to professional standards were essential for maintaining public order while safeguarding democratic freedoms. 

“The GJA stands in solidarity with the affected journalist and assures all media practitioners that it will continue to advocate for their safety and rights. We will closely monitor the handling of this case and take all necessary steps to ensure justice is served, ” the statement reiterated. 

Source: GNA 

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