The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has launched an internal investigation after some of its officers, attached to the National Security Secretariat, were accused of assaulting a Joy FM journalist and several civilians at a warehouse in Accra.
The disturbing incident reportedly took place at a property linked to businessman Daniel McKorley (popularly known as McDan), where the journalist and his team had gone to cover a demolition exercise allegedly carried out by National Security operatives.
In a press release dated July 30, GAF confirmed that the military high command was acting on a directive from the Jubilee House to investigate the matter thoroughly. The statement described the reported conduct of the officers as both “unlawful” and “inappropriate,” assuring the public that no wrongdoing will be swept under the rug.
“The disturbing circumstances involving our officers allegedly attacking a journalist and other civilians going about their lawful duties are utterly reprehensible and condemnable,” the statement read.
“We will not shield any officers from accountability and would like to assure the public of our transparency throughout this process.”
Journalist Shares His Ordeal
Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News, the assaulted journalist (Carlos Coloni) recounted the traumatic experience in detail.
According to him, he and his team arrived at the warehouse before any security operatives. While conducting an on-site interview with an eyewitness, the atmosphere suddenly shifted.
“Out of nowhere, we heard sirens and saw several vehicles rush onto the scene. Soldiers jumped out and interrupted our live interview,” he narrated.
He said he explained to the soldiers that they were journalists doing their job, but things escalated quickly.
“I was on a call with my producers when one of the soldiers approached from behind and punched me twice. I fell to the ground. The claim was that I had been filming them.”
After the assault, the journalist, his team, and some officials from the McDan Group were forcibly taken to the National Security Headquarters near the infamous “Blue Gate” in central Accra.
“We were detained for over 45 minutes, our phones were seized, and I was asked to write a statement. I refused to do so until I spoke with my superiors.”
He confirmed that no further violence occurred during the detention.
Public Outrage and Demands for Accountability
News of the assault has sparked widespread outrage, with civil society organizations, media advocates, and members of the public calling for swift and firm action. Many argue that such incidents are becoming far too common and that stronger systems must be put in place to hold security personnel accountable when they cross the line.
As the Ghana Armed Forces continues its investigation, the nation watches closely, hoping that justice will not only be done—but seen to be done.
