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The Guild of Newspaper Editors (GoNE) has condemned the actions of Sierra Leone Police officers who reportedly entered the offices of Voice of Salone Newspaper on June 1, 2026, and requested that Editor David Johnson accompany them to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over a published article on an alleged cocaine seizure at Portee Wharf.
In a press release issued on June 2, 2026, the Guild expressed “profound concern” over the incident. According to the statement, the officers’ visit was in connection with the publication titled “Mystery Surrounds Alleged Cocaine Seizure at Portee Wharf.”
The Guild described the incident as a matter of serious concern not only for Voice of Salone but also for the wider media fraternity and Sierra Leone’s democratic space.
While acknowledging the constitutional and statutory mandate of the Sierra Leone Police to investigate allegations of criminal conduct, the Guild stressed that such powers must be exercised within the confines of the law and in a manner that respects constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
The statement emphasized that reporting on matters of public interest, including allegations of wrongdoing, is a fundamental responsibility of the media in a democratic society. It noted that journalists play a watchdog role by promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness, particularly on issues of legitimate public concern.
The Guild questioned the legal and factual basis for police officers visiting a newspaper office and requesting the attendance of its editor to obtain evidence to support a published story. It stated that journalists are not investigators for the State, nor are media institutions repositories of evidence for law enforcement agencies. The constitutional responsibility of the press, the Guild said, is to gather, process, and disseminate information in the public interest, while the responsibility for investigating alleged criminal activities rests with relevant state institutions.
The Guild further warned that such actions, if left unchecked, could have a chilling effect on investigative journalism and discourage reporters from covering matters of public importance due to fears of reprisals or official harassment.
Calling for accountability, the Guild urged the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police to provide a clear explanation of the circumstances surrounding the incident and to reassure the public that the constitutional rights of journalists and media institutions will be respected at all times.
The organization also reminded public authorities that Sierra Leone’s democratic credentials are strengthened by a free, independent, and robust press capable of holding institutions and individuals accountable.
Expressing solidarity with David Johnson, management, and staff of Voice of Salone Newspaper, the Guild reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, editorial independence, and the rule of law.
“The freedom of the press is not a privilege granted by the State; it is a constitutional right guaranteed to every citizen and an indispensable pillar of democratic governance,” the Guild stated.
