During the demolition exercise at La Pleasure Beach in Accra, military personnel deployed to manage the area physically confronted and struck NMAG member Sika Official while directing media practitioners to clear the location.

Publicly circulating footage from the scene appears to capture the confrontation, raising grave concerns about the treatment of journalists and online content creators carrying out their professional duties.

Following the incident, NMAG advised Sika Official to seek immediate medical evaluation at a health facility to attend to any injuries sustained.

In a press statement signed by NMAG President Eugene Osafo-Nkansah, the association firmly denounced the use of physical force against media workers. NMAG asserted,

"Bloggers, online Journalists and content creators should not be subjected to physical assault simply because they are documenting an event of public interest".

While acknowledging that security forces maintain a legitimate duty to protect property, maintain order, and restrict access for safety during sensitive operations, the association emphasized that such measures must be managed professionally. NMAG stressed that "Physical violence should not be used as a means of controlling or managing media coverage".

Consequently,NMAG called on the Ghana Armed Forces to conduct an immediate and thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the incident and take appropriate action if personnel acted outside professional standards.

Recognizing the rising role of bloggers and digital journalists in Ghana's modern media space, NMAG highlighted that "We believe the work of security agencies and the work of the media can coexist.

What is required is clear communication, professionalism, mutual respect and adherence to established procedures".

To prevent future clashes, the association encouraged security authorities to establish structured media access frameworks and expressed readiness to engage constructively with the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, and the Ghana Journalists Association.

In conclusion, the incident at La Pleasure Beach highlights the urgent need for mutual respect, clear communication, and professional restraint between security agencies and media practitioners in Ghana.

As digital content creators play an increasingly essential role in informing the public, safeguarding their dignity and physical security remains vital for press freedom. Readers, media advocates, and citizens are encouraged to share this article to promote awareness and support safer working conditions for all Ghanaian journalists and content creators.

#NMAG La Beach assault Sika Official