The Achimota District Court has fined each of the 16 New Patriotic Party (NPP) sympathisers who stormed the studios of Accra-based United Television (UTV), a member of the Despite Media group GH₵2,400.
The court imposed 200 penalty units on each of them.
One penalty unit equals GH₵12 and therefore 200 penalty units translate into GH₵2,400 fine each person will pay.
The accused persons pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawful purpose preferred against them.
They were, therefore, convicted on their own pleas and sentenced to a fine of 200 penalty units each.
They were also ordered by the Court to sign a bond to be of good behaviour.
The 16 invaded the United Television (UTV) studios at Tesano in the Greater Accra Region on Saturday, October 7, 2023.
The agenda was to demand an apology from one of the panelists, Kwame Asare Obeng popularly known as A-Plus.
They claimed the musician-turned-politician had disrespected that party, President Akufo-Addo and Vice-President Dr Bawumia.
Shortly after the show commenced, a disruptive noise obstructed the proceedings leaving viewers surprised and concerned.
The show abruptly went off air, and in its place, commercials filled the screen.
The 16 persons were arrested following a complaint by the owners of UTV, Despite Media Group, and the Ministry of Information (MoI).
They were subsequently charged for being on the premises for unlawful purpose and arraigned before court today, 16th October 2023.
The station in a statement condemned the invasion of its studio by some members of the governing NPP.
UTV has therefore stressed its resolve not to be deterred by such unethical and disturbing activities as an independent media house.
A press release issued by the company said condemn the act of violence and vandalism as it violates the company’s fundamental human rights and freedoms, and the independence of the media as enshrined under Chapters 5 and 12 respectively of the 1992 Constitution.
“We are deeply concerned about this event and we are diligently taking all security and legal measures to prevent the reoccurrence of this unfortunate incident.”
“We are committed to our values and principles as an Independent Media House and we will not be deterred by unethical and disturbing activities.
“Our priority is to continue providing quality news and programs while ensuring the safety and security of all stakeholders.
“We will continue to maintain an impartial and non-biased editorial stance while providing a sale and secure platform for diverse views and opinions to be expressed.”
UTV used the opportunity to thank stakeholders for their support and assured its employees of ensuring their safety at the workplace.
