Benin's media regulatory body has begun investigations into complaints of attacks brought by two media groups.
(MFWA/IFEX) – Benin’s media regulatory body, the High Authority on Broadcasting and Communications (HAAC) has begun investigations into complaints of attacks brought by two media groups, the National Association of Media Practitioners in Benin (SYNAPROMEB) and the Benin Union of Media Practitioners (UPMB).
Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA)’s correspondent reported that in the last two months a number of journalists have suffered attacks from individuals while going about their normal duties.
Sulpice Oscar Gbaguidi, a reporter with Canal 3, a privately-owned television station, was violently assaulted by unknown assailants. The assailants hurled missiles at his car resulting in head injuries and damage to his car. Another journalist, Aboubacar Takou, managing editor of “Béninois Libéré” was attacked by unknown assailants.
On July 21, the crew of ORTB and Golfe, two privately-owned television stations, were attacked by some individuals during a trade union demonstration. This followed another attack on July 20 by angry demonstrators who stormed the offices of the privately-owned Gazette du Golfe TV protesting a report they were not pleased with.
