Individual news analysis and re-written news for visual storytelling #BABJ28065#Group:10(Tatale)

 15 PERSONS ARRESTED AS A RESULT OF ILLEGAL MINING ACTIVITIES AT MANSO ADUBIA.

Source:The Ghanaian Times 

In a special intelligence -led operation by the Ashanti Regional Police command,15 persons have been arrested at Watreso and Preacher Krom,at Manso Adubia who have been accused of illegal mining activities.An analysis of the headline is below:

1. Does the image accurately represent the headline’s message?

Yes. The image aligns well with the headline by showing the individuals who were arrested during an illegal mining operation. They appear muddy  and seated on the ground which visually links them to mining activity, reinforcing the idea of on-site arrests.

2. What emotions does the image evoke? (Does it create urgency, sympathy, or controversy?)

The image evokes a mix of accountability,sympathy, concern, and controversy. Accountability in the sense that they are being punished for indulging in such act.Sympathy arises from seeing individuals in such a vulnerable, unclean state, seated on bare ground. It also raises concern about the broader issue of illegal mining and the conditions under which some people work. Additionally, controversy may arise regarding the public display of suspects, especially if it seems to shame them before legal proceedings.

3. Is the image manipulated or biased? (Does it frame the story in a particular way?)

The image is not manipulated, but it does carry a little bit of bias. By focusing on the arrested individuals in a dirty, exposed state, it frames them as the visual symbols of the crime. There’s no visible context about the mining site, those who employed them, or the environmental damage that has been caused,which narrows the focus to just the individuals at the bottom of the chain.

4. How does composition affect storytelling? (Consider framing, lighting, and focus.)

Framing: The composition draws attention to the suspects' physical condition and position on the ground, portraying them as subdued and somewhat powerless.

Lighting: Likely natural, the lighting enhances the rawness of the scene and contributes to its real state.

Focus: The focus on the individuals without background context centers the story on punishment rather than the cause .

5. Does the image add depth to the story or simply reinforce the headline?

The image adds some depth by offering a visual portrayal of the individuals involved, giving a face to illegal mining.

6. Would a different image change the reader’s perception of the news?

Yes. An image showing polluted water bodies, damaged land, or confiscated mining tools would shift focus to the environmental impact. A photo of community reactions or youth unemployment statistics might raise awareness about the socio-economic roots of illegal mining. In contrast, this image places emphasis on the individuals being punished and not the system.

7. How does the image compare to others covering the same story?

Compared to other media that might use photos of excavators, polluted rivers, or police operations, this image is more human-centered. It adds an emotional dimension but risks portraying the suspects as the only problem, which may overshadow the structural or political issues tied to illegal mining.

8. Is the image culturally or politically significant? (Does it reflect societal biases?)

Yes.Culturally, it reflects Ghana’s ongoing fight against illegal mining (galamsey) and how society often sees such suspects.

Politically, it could be used to show government's action.However, it may also reveal class and power biases, where the poor and visible offenders are shamed, while those financing or enabling the operations often go unexposed.

In conclusion,The image supports the headline by showing the arrested individuals in a state that connects them directly to illegal mining activity. While it adds an emotional layer to the story, it also raises ethical concerns about representation, dignity, and fairness. By focusing on the suspects without handcuffs but in a visibly dehumanized setting, the image subtly frames them as the main problem, without offering insight into deeper causes like poverty, unemployment, or political complicity. A more balanced image or additional visuals could help present a fuller, more accurate story.

RE-WRITTEN NEWS STORY:

OFFICE OF  THE SPECIAL PROSECUTOR (OSP)ARRESTS FORMER GHANA REVENUE AUTHORITY (GRA) OVER SML CONTRACTS.

Source:The Ghanaian Times.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has arrested several former officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) as part of investigations into alleged mismanagements surrounding contracts awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML).

The arrests follow months of public concern and media reports about the nature and cost of the contracts signed between GRA and SML. These contracts, worth millions of Ghana cedis, were intended to monitor ,check and improve revenue collection in the petroleum and mineral sectors.

According to the OSP, initial findings suggest possible acts of corruption, procurement breaches, abuse of office, and financial loss to the state. The former GRA officials are believed to have played key roles in the signing and approval of these deals without following proper legal and administrative procedures.

In a press statement, the OSP stated that the suspects are assisting with investigations and will face prosecution if found guilty. The office also assured the public of its commitment to fighting corruption, especially in state institutions that handle national revenue.

The arrest has sparked public interest, debates and renewed calls for greater accountability in government contracts and procurement processes.

Investigations are ongoing, and more updates are expected in the coming weeks.

By: Memuna Abdulai.

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