The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has vehemently condemned the brutal assault on Class FM journalist, Samuel Addo, by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) during his coverage of a fire outbreak at the Kasoa Market in the Central Region on Sunday, January 4, 2026. At a series of press briefings, GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, described the attack as “brutal, unlawful and reprehensible,” asserting that Mr. Addo was lawfully performing his professional duties by reporting on a matter of significant public interest. Mr. Dwumfour highlighted that the viral video of the incident, showing the journalist and some civilians being callously attacked with helmets, underscores that this was not merely an attack on an individual but a direct assault on media freedom, the public’s right to information, and Ghana’s democratic order.

In response to the egregious incident, the GJA has intensified its calls for immediate and decisive accountability. The Association demanded the immediate dismissal or removal of the GNFS Public Relations Officer (PRO), DO II Desmond Ackah, citing his handling of the incident as evidence of his unfitness to manage communication for the Fire Service. Mr. Dwumfour explicitly stated, “We call for the immediate dismissal or removal of the PRO of the GNFS from the position because our interactions with him on the case show that he is unfit to be in charge of communication for the Fire Service.” The GJA found Ackah’s explanation—that officers only seized Mr. Addo’s phone for recording an altercation without permission—to be “untenable, misleading, and offensive,” emphasizing that no GNFS officer has the authority to obstruct a journalist, confiscate equipment, or demand permission for lawful coverage at a public emergency scene. This response, according to the GJA, reflects a disturbing disregard for press freedom and the law.

Furthermore, the GJA demanded an unqualified public apology from the GNFS to Mr. Addo, the Class Media Group, and the wider media fraternity for the humiliation, trauma, and professional obstruction caused by the assault. More critically, the Association called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to immediately arrest and prosecute all personnel involved in the attack. Mr. Dwumfour stressed that internal disciplinary measures alone are insufficient for what is clearly a criminal act, stating, “This is a criminal matter that cannot be resolved internally.” He confirmed that Mr. Addo has formally reported the incident at the Kasoa New Market Police Station, urging the Police Administration to act swiftly to ensure justice. The GJA also insisted that the leadership of the GNFS, led by Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, publicly condemn the assault, identify the responsible officers, and apply strict internal sanctions, including dismissal where appropriate.

The GJA commended government, through the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, for publicly denouncing the attack and promising firm action against those responsible. Similarly, the Association applauded the management and CEO of Class Media Group, Seidu Agongo, for issuing a strong statement condemning the assault. Mr. Dwumfour affirmed that the GJA would collaborate with Class Media Group and the Minister of State to ensure justice for Mr. Addo. He issued a stern warning: “Any attempt to shield the perpetrators or trivialise this incident will be fiercely resisted,” underscoring that the protection of journalists and the upholding of press freedom are non-negotiable principles that must be safeguarded.