A supporter of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Theophilus Thompson, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault following his arrest for allegedly attacking JoyNews journalist Latif Iddrisu.

Thompson, 55, appeared in court on Monday, June 9, where he denied the allegations stemming from a violent incident captured on video.

The footage shows Thompson, along with other yet-to-be-identified individuals, allegedly assaulting the journalist during a live broadcast outside the offices of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

The attack occurred while Latif Iddrisu was covering the detention of the NPP's Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

The courtroom saw a high level of interest, with several NPP stalwarts in attendance to offer their support to Thompson.

Notable among them were National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, also known as Nana B, and National Youth Organiser Salam Mustapha.

Thompson’s lawyer maintained his client’s innocence and prayed the court for bail.

The defence stressed that Thompson has a fixed place of residence and poses no flight risk.

Citing Section 97(4) of Ghana’s Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, Act 30, the lawyer argued: “The court shall not refuse or withdraw bail merely as a form of punishment.”

The prosecution did not oppose the bail request, but urged the court to consider the gravity of the alleged offence and the need to ensure justice for the victim.

The case has been adjourned, and investigations are ongoing as law enforcement continues to search for the other suspects involved in the incident.