During the Ablekuma North parliamentary re-run election on July 11, an incident involving the assault of a journalist by a police officer was captured on video, sparking widespread concern. The Accra Regional Police Command promptly responded, confirming the officer has been interdicted and will face criminal charges.
The re-run election, already marked by heightened tensions and disruptions at polling stations, saw several violent episodes. In the wake of the assault, the police have launched a thorough investigation, reviewing multiple video recordings to identify all individuals involved in the disturbances. According to Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Region, the command has been actively collecting statements from both complainants and witnesses to support the ongoing inquiry.
“Vital leads have been gathered, and arrests are expected to follow,” Superintendent Obeng stated, emphasizing the commitment to enforcing accountability. Victims of the violence, including the assaulted journalist, have been issued Police Medical Report Forms to assist with their legal and medical proceedings.
The identity of the officer involved remains undisclosed to the public, but swift actions have been confirmed. The Accra Regional Police Command reiterated their zero-tolerance stance on violence and misconduct during elections, asserting that such behaviors will not be tolerated and that all responsible parties will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Ablekuma North re-run was necessitated following the annulment of the initial parliamentary election results over reported irregularities. Authorities encourage members of the public who may have credible information regarding the disturbances to come forward by contacting emergency numbers 18555 or 191. This initiative underscores the police’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served impartially and that the rule of law is upheld throughout the electoral process.
For further information and official updates, please refer to the original report by Graphic Online: Graphic Online.
