Friday, 26 June

Obaatanpa radio condemns alleged attack on premises, says staff assaulted and station forced off air

News
Obaatanpa Radio

Obaatanpa Radio has condemned what it describes as a violent attack on its premises, alleging that some individuals assaulted staff, disrupted operations and forced the station off air.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the station said the incident followed discussions on its morning programme on Wednesday regarding internal matters within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to management, the Awutu Senya East Municipal Chief Executive, Seth Serwonoo Banini, the Central Regional Chairman of the NDC, Dr. Richard Kofi Asiedu, and several other individuals arrived at the station shortly after the broadcast.

The station alleged that its Morning Show Host and Producer were verbally abused and physically assaulted during the confrontation.

Management further claimed that the group entered the studios while a live programme was underway, switched off transmission equipment, ordered staff to vacate the premises and subsequently locked up the station.

Obaatanpa Radio described the incident as an attack on media freedom, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to the safety of journalists and the independence of the press.

The station said it has lodged a formal complaint with the Central East Regional Police Command and commended the police for their swift response.

Management also called on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.

It further disclosed that CCTV footage of the incident would be released to support ongoing investigations.

Despite the disruption, Obaatanpa Radio reaffirmed its commitment to professional, fair and responsible journalism.

The individuals named in the station's statement have not publicly responded to the allegations.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Zita Okwang