Armed Policemen storm Ghana's Metro TV Station, interrupts live show
A dramatic scene unfolded at the premises of Metro TV in Ghana, as police officers and a court bailiff arrived to interrupt a live broadcast. The unexpected interruption was reportedly linked to a long-standing debt owed by the TV station to a telecommunications company.
According to sources, the debt, which dates back several years, had led to a court-issued writ of execution, authorizing the seizure of assets. The bailiff, armed with the court order, attempted to take possession of the TV station's property, but was met with resistance from the station's private security personnel.
Dr. Randy Abbey, host of Good Morning Ghana was seen on video, confirming the disturbing incident at the premises of Metro TV.
According to him, armed policemen attempted to forcibly enter the studio to enforce a supposed court order, but things took a turn when they clashed with the station's private security personnel, leaving some injured.
"Our private security has been trying to prevent them, and a couple of them are injured," he said.
The incident has sparked concerns about the potential impact on the TV station's operations and the freedom of the press in Ghana.
The incident is not the first of its kind, with sources recalling a similar incident in the past, where vehicles belonging to the company were confiscated.
Last year, members of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) invaded UTV's premises, obstructing its prime-time show.The Achimota Magistrates' Court later convicted and fined 16 individuals involved in the incident. Each person was ordered to pay GH¢2400, and they were charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and rioting.
As Ghana prepares for its elections, stakeholders are calling for increased media safety measures. The Media Foundation for West Africa has emphasized the importance of a safe and enabling environment for journalists to work without fear of intimidation or violence.
Find videos of the invasion below as obatained from myjoyonline.com
Source: Florence Kyei / Lead News Online
