The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has strongly condemned an attack on Murtala Inusah, a Legal Affairs Correspondent for EIB Network, by supporters of Prophet Salifu Amoako at the Accra Circuit Court. The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, as Inusah was covering legal proceedings surrounding the case of a fatal car accident allegedly caused by the prophet’s 16-year-old son on October 12, 2024.
Inusah, who was performing his lawful duties by gathering footage outside the courtroom, was assaulted by the supporters of the prophet. His phone was damaged during the altercation, and he sustained multiple cuts to his wrist. The attack took place after Inusah reportedly attempted to film Prophet Salifu Amoako and his wife, Mouha Amoako, who were present in court to support their son, the accused.
The teenager involved in the case has been charged in connection with a fatal accident that claimed two lives over the weekend. His parents, Prophet Salifu Amoako and his wife, were arrested on Tuesday, October 15, and appeared before the court the following day. Tensions ran high outside the courtroom, leading to the confrontation between Amoako’s supporters and members of the media.
JUSAG, in a statement issued by its National President, Samuel Afotey Otu, expressed grave concern over the attack, describing it as an assault on the judiciary and press freedom in Ghana. The association noted that such incidents compromise the safety of court staff, journalists, and other individuals seeking justice within court premises. JUSAG also highlighted the growing trend of attacks in court environments, calling for immediate action to safeguard the security of all involved.
“It is an attack on our democracy,” JUSAG stated, urging the police to take swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice. Although a complaint has been lodged at the Ministries Police Station, there were no immediate arrests made at the scene, which has drawn criticism from the association.
Inusah, an award-winning court correspondent recently honored by JUSAG for his professionalism and ethical journalism, has received widespread support from his peers and media organizations. JUSAG extended their wishes for his speedy recovery and urged the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to take an active interest in the matter, emphasizing the need to protect the press and the justice system from further attacks.
Source: Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
