Asumenya, Ghana – A violent confrontation erupted in the small town of Asumenya, near Manso Nkran in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, targeting a group of journalists from the Multimedia Group. The attack occurred on October 20, 2024, as the journalists were investigating the return of illegal mining operations and environmental degradation in the region.
The team, which was in the area to report on the environmental impact of unauthorized mining—locally known as galamsey—on the newly restored Asumenya Forest Reserve, faced an unexpected and brutal confrontation. The Multimedia Group revealed that more than ten assailants, armed with pump-action guns, ambushed their crew, capturing dramatic moments that underscore the dangers faced by journalists covering sensitive issues.
During the heinous assault, the journalists were forcibly taken to an isolated location where they endured physical abuse. The assailants then abandoned the bruised media team, but not before seizing various items including a tablet, drone batteries, and SD cards containing crucial footage and data related to their investigative work. Before fleeing the scene, the attackers also erased all the recorded evidence, further hindering the team’s reporting efforts.
The Multimedia Group has since lodged a formal complaint with local authorities, and has acknowledged the quick action taken by the Inspector General of Police, who has initiated operations aimed at capturing the perpetrators. The incident has prompted the media conglomerate to demand that the Ghana Police Service exert all efforts to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted.
In their public statement, the Multimedia Group expressed their outrage over the attack, emphasizing the critical role of journalists in tackling significant societal issues such as illegal mining and its environmental impacts. “We unequivocally denounce this attack on our journalists and three other team members, and we demand swift justice,” a portion of the statement declared. “No Ghanaian should have to endure such brutality while merely fulfilling their professional duties.”
The attack highlights the broader risks journalists face in regions plagued by illegal activities and environmental crimes. Such incidents raise concerns about press freedom and safety, key components in a functioning democratic society where media acts as a watchdog.
This incident not only sheds light on the physical threats journalists encounter but also the desperate measures taken by those involved in illegal activities to evade exposure. The Multimedia Group utilized this unfortunate event to call for increased protection for journalists nationwide, asserting the importance of the press in informing the public and influencing policy and public opinion regarding ecological and other pressing issues.
As the investigations continue, the assault in Asumenya remains a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges and dangers that journalists face, underscoring the need for greater security measures to protect them in their line of duty. The response from law enforcement and the outcomes of this troubling event will be closely monitored by various stakeholders, including international journalist advocacy groups concerned with media freedom and safety.