The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has condemned the assault on three journalists in Asankrangwa, Western Region, including Channel One TV and Citi News’ Western Regional Correspondent, Akwasi Agyei Annim.
He also urged the Western Regional Police to ensure justice is served in the case.
On Friday, February 21, illegal miners linked to the Dabena Mining Company attacked Akwasi Agyei Annim and two other journalists while they were covering activities in the Adomanya Forest within the Wassa Amenfi West District. The Asankragwa District Police have arrested Daniel Baidoo, also known as Yaw Tenkorang, the sole suspect in the attack, and granted him bail with surety.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, March 13, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour criticized the police’s handling of attacks on journalists, describing their approach as discouraging.
He accused some officers of being complicit in such assaults and called for the case to be transferred out of Asankragwa, citing concerns over impartiality.
“This attack is barbaric, and we condemn it in no uncertain terms. We understand that once the suspect has been arrested, he’s currently facing trial in Asankragwa. We also understand that some money has been lodged at the police station covering the cost of the equipment damaged. The court has ordered that the said money be given to the journalists to replace their damaged equipment and enable them to go back to work.
“I will urge the regional commander who has jurisdiction over Asankragwa to act swiftly to ensure that justice is served or the perpetrators face the full rigors of the law. The GJA demands justice for the three journalists.”
Dwumfour also reiterated the GJA’s stance against illegal mining, known as ‘galamsey,’ and called for urgent measures to curb the menace, emphasizing its devastating impact on communities and the environment.
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