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Dutch journalist Sophie van Leeuwen has been questioned for a second consecutive day by the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) at the Criminal Investigations Department headquarters in Freetown.
The SLP has stated that “several questionable activities related to her work in the country have been unearthed during the interview.”
According to a press statement released by the SLP on February 14, 2025, van Leeuwen was observed conducting journalistic activities without the necessary media accreditation from the appropriate authority.
Furthermore, the police allege that she concealed her presence in Sierra Leone by providing a future arrival date when she was already in the country. The SLP statement emphasizes that this behavior “does not align with standards expected from credible media institutions or professionals” and is “in stark contrast with the Sierra Leone Government Media Advisory of June, 2023.”
Following the questioning, van Leeuwen has been released but cautioned against engaging in any further journalistic activity until she obtains the required accreditation.
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has subsequently advised its members to adhere to proper procedures for foreign journalists working in the country. The SLP has reassured the public of its continued commitment to collaborating with communities to ensure everyone’s safety in Sierra Leone.
