Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State overseeing Government Communications, has strongly condemned the reported assault of Samuel Addo, a journalist with the Class Media Group, by Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) personnel during last Sunday’s fire at Kasoa New Market.
Online footage shows fire officers striking someone with helmets, though the circumstances leading to the attack remain unclear. Preliminary reports suggest the officers were trying to prevent traders from entering the market amid the evening fire outbreak.
Samuel Addo, however, says the assault occurred the following morning. He explained that he had returned to the scene to report on the fire when he noticed fire personnel seemingly in an altercation with a civilian. As he began filming the incident, the officers who were engaged with a trader turned their attention toward him, leading to the assault.
Taking to X (Twitter), Mr. Kwakye Ofosu decried the attack and assured the public that the government would respond promptly.
“The attack on Class Media Group’s Samuel Addo by some personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service is most unacceptable and I condemn same. Firm action will be taken against the rogue elements who carried out this attack,” he stated.
The attack on Class Media Group's Samuel Addo by some personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service is most unacceptable and I condemn same. Firm action will be taken against the rogue elements who carried out this attack.
— Felix Kwakye Ofosu (@FelixKwakyeOfo1) January 5, 2026
The Ghana National Fire Service acknowledged the incident in a press release, confirming that it is under investigation. According to the GNFS, the video appears to show a confrontation that erupted after firefighters were allegedly attacked by a group that included a suspected thief at the scene.
While condemning any assaults on its staff, the Service stressed that it does not tolerate physical or verbal attacks on civilians, regardless of provocation. Management has established an internal committee to investigate and determine the facts. The GNFS also called for public calm, reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and transparency.
In radio interviews, DOII David Ackah, speaking for the GNFS, reiterated that the investigation aims to clarify exactly what occurred during the incident, Graphic reported.
