The Ghana Armed Forces has initiated an investigation into the alleged assault of journalist Solomon Kwame Kanaluwe by military personnel in Walewale, located in the North East Region of Ghana. This development comes after Kanaluwe, a correspondent for the Media General Group, was reportedly detained and assaulted by soldiers over a parking dispute.
According to Kanaluwe, the incident occurred when he parked his motorbike in front of a shop, prompting four soldiers to approach him and inquire about the vehicle’s owner. The soldiers claimed that dealing with individuals who disrupt their operations is part of their duties, citing a section of the military code of ethics on a mobile phone. The provision allegedly stated that personnel may subject individuals to minor punishment if they obstruct military operations.
The soldiers seized Kanaluwe’s mobile phone, detained him for a period, and later returned the device after copying some of his contacts and forwarding selected messages to their personal phones. Upon receiving his phone, Kanaluwe discovered that all data on the device had been deleted.
The Ghana Armed Forces has attributed the incident to the worsening security conditions in the region, which have led to intensified military operations. Recent attacks on public transport in the North East and Upper East Regions have resulted in casualties, prompting the military to conduct operations without prior notice.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has commended the military high command for its prompt response and decision to launch an investigation into the incident. The MFWA has urged the Ghana Armed Forces to ensure transparency by keeping the public informed of the outcome of the investigation. The foundation has also called on the military authorities to provide updates on investigations into the assault of two journalists by soldiers in the North East Region in 2025, as well as reported complaints of military assaults on civilians in the area.
The incident highlights the need for accountability and professionalism in security operations, particularly in regions with heightened security concerns. The MFWA has reiterated that civilians, including journalists, must be protected and respected, even in the context of intensified military operations. As the investigation unfolds, it is essential for the Ghana Armed Forces to demonstrate transparency and commitment to upholding the rights of civilians and journalists.
