The Asankragwa District Court recently handed down a conviction to Daniel Baidoo for assaulting a group of journalists who were documenting illegal mining activities near Asankran Breman. Baidoo was found guilty on 26 March 2025 and was fined 300 penalty units, which amounts to GH₵3,600. Failure to pay the fine will result in a one-year prison sentence with hard labor.
The incident took place on 21 February 2025 when Baidoo attacked Citi News’ Western Regional Correspondent, Akwasi Agyei Annim, and his team while they were filming environmental damage caused by illegal miners at Adumanya. Baidoo and his accomplices seized the journalists’ equipment, including a Panasonic Lumix camera, microphones, and Annim’s iPhone, and demanded the deletion of all footage.
The Western Central Regional Police Command later recovered the stolen items and arrested Baidoo, who was subsequently charged and prosecuted for his actions.
This case sheds light on the ongoing risks faced by journalists reporting on illegal mining, known as galamsey, in Ghana. Media advocates have emphasized the need for stronger protections for press freedom and stricter enforcement against attacks on reporters. However, authorities have not confirmed whether further arrests will be made in connection with the incident.
To effectively protect journalists in Ghana, comprehensive legal, operational, and institutional reforms are necessary. Fast-track courts should handle journalist assault cases with stricter penalties, and amendments to the Right to Information Act should enhance press freedoms. High-risk assignments should be supported by police protection units, safety gear, and emergency alert systems for reporters.
Institutionally, a National Media Security Council should be established to coordinate protection efforts among stakeholders, with the support of a 24/7 emergency hotline. Additionally, digital safeguards such as cybersecurity training and encrypted tools are essential for the safety of investigative journalists.
