The Inquirer (Monrovia)
Timothy T. Seaklon
28 March 2008
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) and the Liberian National Police (LNP) yesterday held an interactive Forum aimed at finding a common ground relative to the operations of the two institutions.
The forum which was attended by an array of senior police officers led by Col. B. Bonokollie Zinnah, Special Assistant to the Director of Police and the President of the PUL, Mr. George Barpeen, discussed among other things police excesses against the media in the execution of its duties and a way such can be curtailed.
At yesterday's forum held at the YMCA on Broad Street, the Police and the PUL which is the parent body of journalists in the country discussed the advantages and disadvantages that stand in their way during the execution of their duties.
The media bluntly complained of police brutality encountered by them whenever they were covering major public events especially where a 'Very Important Person' (VIP) was around.
The police said they do not appreciate journalists taking photos on crime scenes because according to them it 'contaminates the crime scene.'
The Police advised the media to adhere to restriction in the execution of their duties because their job is to ensure security and the protection of the VIP and the scene.
However, the Media frowned on the behavior of the police which according to media, leads to 'Police Brutality' and at the same time leaves journalists without getting the news for public consumption.
Journalists narrated several events at which time they were barred from covering news and in some instances when they were even physically attacked by police officers or 'state security.'
In finding a common way forward, the two institutions agreed that such a big forum must be held with experts providing knowledge that can help both parties in the execution of their duties.
The media and the police also agreed to engage each other constructively for the good of all in the execution of their duties.
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