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The Sierra Leone Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu has affirmed that he did not order the arrest of popular journalist, Thomas Dixon following differing claims widely shared on social media on Saturday.
The Police Chief clarified that there is currently no arrest warrant for Dixon, countering rumors that had circulated among some members of the public on Saturday afternoon.
The Inspector General has acknowledged a rift between himself and Dixon. He also mentioned that he intends to pursue legal action against the journalist involved, following guidance from a senior journalist he consulted regarding the matter.
The fiasco between the IG and Dixon was brewed over a Facebook post Dixon made describing the IG of being “arrogant” following his alleged interference in an investigation matter at the West End Police Station on Adelaide Street in Freetown.
The journalist leveled serious allegations against IG Sellu, claiming that his interference was significantly obstructing the ongoing investigation. The situation had escalated to such an extent that it was reported the Crime Officer assigned to the case had been unexpectedly transferred to a provincial post, further complicating the efforts to bring clarity to the matter at hand.
Recent reports have emerged indicating that the CDIID is presently conducting an investigation into the transfer of the officer to the provinces.
Dixon went into hiding on Saturday afternoon after allegedly receiving a message from the IG that reads “Dixon, you have crossed the line” barely two hours after criticising him on social media.
The issue has attracted significant public interest, prompting Ahmed Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), to advocate for the protection of journalists. He emphasized the importance of fostering a positive relationship between the security sector and the press to ensure a safe and collaborative environment for media professionals.
