Police to investigate alleged assault on a Journalist at Bortianor

The Ghana Police have begun an investigation into an alleged assault on a journalist at Bortianor in Accra by some men believed to be Police personnel over a misunderstanding in connection with the land.

According to the Police, the said land is allegedly being claimed by two parties, one of whom is said to be the police personnel who led the attack on the journalist.

The Police have assured the public of bringing the preparators to book if they are found guilty of the crime committed.

It also asked the public to repose confidence in them and to engage the Police administration with any credible information that could assist in the investigations.

“It has come to the attention of the Police Administration of an alleged assault on a journalist at Bortianor in Accra, by some men believed to be Police personnel over a misunderstanding in connection with the land.

That the said parcel of land is allegedly being claimed by two parties, one of whom is said to be police personnel.” The Police said

Both Ghana’s laws and international human rights standards require the state to prevent, prohibit and investigate crimes against journalists.

Ghana’s constitution recognizes media freedom and independence, which creates the obligation for the authorities to protect journalists.

Ghana should also comply with the African Commission Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa  which requires states to “take effective legal and other measures to investigate, prosecute and punish perpetrators of attacks against journalists and other media practitioners, and ensure that victims have access to effective remedies.”