The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has confirmed that the Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into an alleged assault on Class Media journalist Samuel Addo during coverage of a fire outbreak at the Kasoa New Market in the Central Region.

The incident occurred on Monday, January 5, 2026, when Addo was reportedly confronted by some fire service personnel who allegedly attempted to stop him from filming the scene.

A video circulating on social media shows the journalist being manhandled amid a chaotic environment, with voices heard shouting at him.

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In a statement issued on January 5, 2026, the GNFS assured the public of its full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

The Service clarified that the viral video captures an altercation involving firefighters and a suspected thief who, together with accomplices, allegedly attacked personnel at the fire scene.

“Management of the Service has constituted a committee to investigate the incident thoroughly and establish all relevant facts,” the statement said.

The GNFS urged the public to remain calm and exercise restraint while investigations are ongoing.

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It emphasised that while the Service condemns attacks on its personnel, it equally frowns upon any form of physical or verbal assault on civilians by its staff, regardless of provocation.

“GNFS remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in the discharge of its mandate and will continue to cooperate with the media and relevant authorities to ensure accurate public information,” the statement added.

The fire at Kasoa New Market broke out on January 5, 2026.

According to the GNFS, a distress call was received at 4:50 p.m., and the first fire tender from the Kasoa Fire Station arrived eight minutes later, by which time the fire had already reached an advanced stage.

MRA/BAI

Meanwhile, watch President John Dramani Mahama’s 2026 full New Year Message below: