Ablekuma North Rerun: Police officer faces criminal charge for assaulting journalist

A police officer who physically assaulted a journalist during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North Constituency has been formally charged with criminal assault.

The officer was seen in a widely circulated video attacking Kwabena Agyekum Banahene, a reporter with the EIB Network.

The incident occurred on Friday, July 11, 2025, while Banahene was covering the voting process.

Despite being clearly identified as a journalist—both verbally and by his branded attire—the officer reportedly struck him after demanding that he vacate the polling area.

The Ghana Police Service earlier interdicted the officer and was referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for internal disciplinary action.

According to the Police in dated statement Thursday, July 17, the assault case is now being handled as a criminal matter.

“The Police have also gathered vital leads and wish to assure the public that arrests will be effected soon. Meanwhile, the victims involved in the incidents have been issued with Police Medical Report Forms. In line with due process, the Police Officer captured in one of the videos, assaulting a journalist who was interdicted, has been held for criminal charges of assault.”

The rerun in Ablekuma North was necessitated by unresolved collation and verification issues during the December 2024 general elections. As a result, the constituency has yet to elect a Member of Parliament.

Police say the journalist has received medical attention, and investigations are ongoing.

They have reiterated their commitment to transparency and accountability in resolving the case.