Police Interdict Officer Over Viral Assault on GHOne Journalist at Ablekuma North Polls — Government, GJA Demand Justice

Police Interdict Officer Over Viral Assault on GHOne Journalist at Ablekuma North Polls — Government, GJA Demand Justice

The Ghana Police Service has interdicted a police officer captured in a viral video assaulting GHOne TV journalist Banahene Agyekum during the Ablekuma North parliamentary election re-run. The officer has been withdrawn from election duty and referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for a full disciplinary investigation.

In a press statement dated July 11, 2025, and signed by Assistant Superintendent of Police Richmond Mensah, the Police assured the public that a thorough probe is underway and updates will be communicated in due course.

“The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North; and in line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been interdicted and referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau,” the statement said.

Government Strongly Condemns the Attack

Earlier this week, the Minister of Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, condemned the incident while swearing in newly elected national executives of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). He called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate the assault swiftly and ensure justice is served.

“We do not condone any form of violence against journalists. The government is committed to protecting media practitioners and ensuring that incidents like these are met with appropriate legal consequences,” he declared.

Kwakye Ofosu further emphasized the government's commitment to working with the media as partners in combating misinformation and promoting democratic accountability.

Eyewitness Account from Accra Mayor

Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the altercation firsthand, described the officer as having a “hot temper” and called for his immediate replacement.

“That officer is clearly not fit for election duties. His aggressive behavior was unprovoked and unnecessary,” the Mayor said.

A Moment of Reckoning for Media Protection

The incident has sparked national concern over the safety of journalists covering politically charged events. While the police interdiction is seen as a step in the right direction, media stakeholders are calling for long-term institutional reforms to safeguard journalists from abuse and intimidation.