A journalist with Class Media Group, Samuel Addo, has formally reported an alleged assault by officers of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to the police after an incident that occurred while he was covering a fire outbreak at the Kasoa New Market.
Mr Addo claims that during the confrontation, he lost GHS10,200 in cash, although his mobile phone—which was taken from him at the time—has since been recovered and returned.
What happened
Speaking in an interview with Citi News, the journalist explained that he was initially discussing the fire incident on a morning radio programme before deciding to visit the GNFS station to obtain the fire service’s side of the story.
According to him, upon arriving at the station, he witnessed what he described as fire service personnel physically assaulting civilians. As part of his professional duty, he decided to record the scene.
Mr Addo said that while he was filming, a young fire service officer approached him. He introduced himself clearly as a journalist, after which the officer walked away. However, moments later, the situation escalated.
“A few minutes later, about ten officers, including the same person, came towards me,” he recounted. “They grabbed me by the neck, twisted my hands behind my back, and assaulted me.”
He further alleged that during the altercation, the officers seized his mobile phone, tore his belt, and forcefully removed his belongings.
Missing cash and recovery of phone
After the incident, Mr Addo said he noticed that his bag had been opened. Upon checking, he realised that GHS10,200 was missing from the GHS20,000 he had earlier carried with him.
He disclosed that his mobile phone was later returned following the intervention of the Member of Parliament for the area, Phyllis Naa Koryor. However, the missing cash has not been recovered.
“The phone has been returned, but the money is still missing,” he said. “I have officially reported everything to the police.”
Medical attention and next steps
Mr Addo added that he has been issued with a police medical form and is proceeding to a hospital for medical examination and treatment as part of the ongoing investigation.
Broader concerns
The incident has once again brought attention to growing concerns about the safety of journalists, particularly those covering emergency situations such as fires, accidents, and public disturbances. Media advocates have long called for stronger protections for journalists and greater accountability among security and emergency service personnel operating in public spaces.
As investigations continue, many within the media fraternity are closely watching how the matter is handled, viewing it as a test case for press freedom, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.
Sources: MYjoyonline & Citinewsroom
