Management of Class Media Group has condemned the assault on one of its journalists allegedly by officers of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) during a fire outbreak at Kasoa Market on January 4.
This is contained in a press release issued by the Management of the media house on January 5.
“On behalf of the Class Media Group, I express deep concern over the assault on one of our journalists by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service. Such incidents not only threaten press freedom and the safety of journalists but also undermine Ghana’s credibility and standing as a champion of media rights,” the statement signed by Alhaji Seidu Agongo noted.
“We urge the relevant authorities to conduct a swift and impartial investigation to establish the facts and ensure accountability,” he urged
“Our journalist was performing his lawful duties, and we expect full cooperation from all parties to safeguard media practitioners. We remain committed to promoting responsible journalism and call for calm as this matter is addressed,” Mr Agongo further noted.
Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has said that it taken note of a viral video circulating on social media which shows some yet-to-be-identified alleged Fire Service personnel assaulting a civilian whose identity has not been established.
This is contained in a press statement dated January 5.
“The Service confirms that the alleged assault of a journalist is under police investigation, and that GNFS will fully cooperate to establish the facts. The video captures an altercation between firefighters and a suspected thief, who had earlier attacked firefighters along with a group of accomplices at the fire scene,” the statement issued by DO II Desmond Ackah explained.
The GNFS announced that “Management of the Service has constituted a committee to investigate the incident thoroughly and establish all relevant facts. While GNFS condemns attacks on its personnel, it equally frowns upon any form of physical or verbal assault on civilians by its personnel, regardless of the level of provocation.”
The Ghana National Fire Service therefore urged the public to remain calm and exercise restraint while the investigations continue.
“GNFS remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in the discharge of its mandate and will continue to cooperate with the media and relevant authorities to ensure accurate public information,” the GNFS added.
“Further updates on this matter will be communicated as necessary,” it assured.
