The ongoing legal battle between Joy News journalist Latif Iddrisu and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) took a fresh turn during Monday’s court proceedings, as the state questioned the journalist’s decision to seek medical treatment in California, USA. The Senior State Attorney, Nancynetta Twumasi Asiamah, raised concerns during her cross-examination about the lack of a formal referral from any Ghanaian medical institution to the Loma Linda University Medical Center or the Southern California Brain Center, where the journalist received care.
Latif Iddrisu is suing the IGP and the Attorney General over an alleged assault he suffered in March 2018 while covering a protest at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department. The incident left him with a fractured skull and lingering health issues, which prompted his decision to seek specialized rehabilitation in the United States. Although medical records confirm his injuries, the state continues to argue that no police officer was involved in the alleged assault.
Despite consistent testimony and evidence presented by Latif, the state’s legal team has spent the past seven years challenging his claims. Interestingly, in 2023, the Attorney General revealed that a recommendation had been made for an out-of-court settlement, including compensation for the journalist. However, the then IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, opted to allow the matter to proceed through the courts instead.
The case, filed in 2019, has seen multiple delays and is now being handled by the third judge assigned. In a bid to fast-track the trial, ten hearing dates were scheduled for April. However, only three have been held so far due to the repeated absence of the state attorney on the agreed dates.
Latif Iddrisu and his employers at Multimedia Group remain firm in their resolve to pursue justice. They are seeking a judgment that will hold the Ghana Police Service accountable and affirm the rights of journalists in the country.
With the trial set to continue on Thursday, April 17, 2025, all eyes are on the courtroom as State Attorney Nancynetta Twumasi Asiamah is expected to resume her cross-examination. The case remains one of the most closely watched legal battles involving press freedom and police accountability in Ghana’s recent history.
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