The alleged assault of GHOne Television journalist, Banabene, by Adentan Divisional Police Commander, Lumor, during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun on July 11, 2025, has resulted in formal assault charges against the commander. This incident, captured in widely circulated video footage, sparked public outrage and condemnation from media organizations and civil society groups. The Accra Regional Police Command, confirming the charges, affirmed their commitment to holding all individuals accountable for acts of violence and misconduct during the election. This action signifies a pivotal step in addressing the election-related violence that marred the by-election.
The Accra Regional Police Command, led by Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs, launched a comprehensive investigation into the violent incidents that occurred during the rerun. This involved a meticulous review of multiple video recordings from various polling stations, identifying individuals involved in acts of violence and assault. The police investigation aims to build a strong case against all implicated individuals, demonstrating their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring justice for the victims. This commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial for maintaining public trust in the police force.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the police have collected detailed statements from complainants and witnesses who were present at the scenes of violence. This meticulous documentation of testimonies provides valuable evidence to support the charges against the perpetrators. Furthermore, medical report forms have been issued to victims of the violence, ensuring that their injuries are documented and can be used as evidence in the legal proceedings. These procedural steps reinforce the seriousness with which the police are treating the incidents and their commitment to ensuring a fair and thorough investigation.
The Accra Regional Police Command has assured the public of their commitment to swift action in apprehending all those involved in the election-related violence. They have already identified several persons of interest and are pursuing credible leads to secure their arrests in the coming days. The police are also appealing for public cooperation, urging anyone with information to come forward and assist the investigation. This collaboration between law enforcement and the public is vital for ensuring the success of the investigation and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The assault on journalist Banabene underscores the broader issue of election-related violence and the vulnerability of media personnel covering such events. This incident has reignited calls for stronger protections for journalists and increased accountability for those who threaten their safety. The charges against Commander Lumor represent a significant test of the police’s willingness to hold their own members accountable for misconduct. The outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for police accountability and public trust.
The investigation into the Ablekuma North by-election violence is a crucial step towards ensuring that all individuals involved in acts of violence and misconduct are held accountable. The charges against Commander Lumor, a high-ranking police officer, signal the police’s commitment to upholding the law regardless of rank or position. This commitment to transparency and accountability is vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring free and fair elections. The police’s appeal for public cooperation and the swift action promised in the coming days will be pivotal in bringing all perpetrators to justice and preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future. The outcome of this case will be closely watched as a litmus test for the police’s commitment to accountability and its impact on the broader issue of election-related violence.
