The assault of Class Media journalist Samuel Addo at the Kasoa New Market has reignited concerns about the safety of journalists covering public interest events in Ghana, particularly at scenes involving security and emergency personnel.
Addo was allegedly attacked by officers of the Ghana National Fire Service while covering the aftermath of a fire outbreak at the market. Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Tuesday (6 January) he described the incident as unprovoked and deeply troubling for press freedom.
According to him, he was clearly identifiable as a journalist, having introduced himself to market authorities and fire personnel and wearing Class Media-branded clothing at the time of the assault.
“As journalists, it is our mandate to update the public on whatever is happening. We are the mouthpiece of the people,” Addo said. “If those who are supposed to protect us are attacking us, then it means we are not safe.”
He questioned whether the response from fire officers would have been the same if civilians were attacking firefighters and journalists were documenting the incident.
Addo said the attack has left him with minor injuries, including pain in his throat, finger, and across his body, though he described the injuries as not life-threatening following medical treatment.
Beyond the physical impact, he expressed disappointment with the Ghana National Fire Service’s initial response to the incident, particularly a public statement suggesting that he was not assaulted.
“It’s unfortunate. How can you say my phone was seized and not an assault? If you were doing the right thing, why stop me from recording?” he asked.
He also raised concerns about the broader pattern of attacks on journalists in Ghana, stressing that his experience is not an isolated case.
“This is not the first time a journalist has been attacked on the line of duty,” he said. “We are not protected at all.”
Addo said he has not had direct engagement with senior GNFS officials since the incident, aside from a brief attempt by an officer to reach him after his phone was returned. He stated that his expectations remain simple: a formal apology and restitution for the money he lost as a result of the assault.
The incident has sparked widespread public reaction on social media, with media advocacy groups and journalists calling for accountability and stronger protections for media practitioners in the line of duty.
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