The Management of AYV Media has issued a strong condemnation regarding the assault of one of their senior camera journalists, Foday Fofanah, by personnel of the Sierra Leone Police at Old Model Road Junction in Freetown on May 21, 2025.

According to the statement released by the Management of AYV, Fofanah was returning from an official assignment when he intervened in a situation involving a female street vendor and two police officers who were pursuing a commercial motorbike rider.

The management confirmed that Foday’s intervention, aimed at defending a vulnerable citizen, should not have led to his assault, intimidation, and physical harm.

They described the incident as a “gross abuse of power” and a crucial threat to press freedom in Sierra Leone. They have called for immediate action from the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police and the Independent Police Complaints Board (IPCB) to investigate the incident thoroughly and hold the responsible officers accountable.

The organization has reported the incident to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and is in communication with relevant authorities to ensure that the rights and safety of journalists are protected in accordance with national and international standards.

In their statement, AYV Media expressed firm support for Foday Fofanah and reiterated the need for state institutions to uphold the safety and rights of journalists.