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Dutch RTL journalist Sophie van Leeuwen has been prevented from leaving Sierra Leone following her arrest on Thursday.
While released from custody, she remains in the country pending further interrogation, according to the Sierra Leone Police.
Van Leeuwen and a local journalist were initially detained at a checkpoint near Freetown. Police questioned her at her accommodation on suspicion of espionage and conducting journalistic work without proper accreditation.
Despite claims from the local journalist that van Leeuwen possessed accreditation from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), and even attended and participated in a recent press briefing, authorities are continuing their investigation.
Van Leeuwen’s reporting in Sierra Leone focuses on the alleged presence of Dutch drug lord Jos Leijdekkers, also known as “Bolle Jos.” Police stated the arrest stemmed from “the unlawful capture” of images.
In a subsequent statement, the Sierra Leone police affirmed their commitment to press freedom, public safety, and the rule of law, and confirmed van Leeuwen’s release to “continue her work.”
RTL maintains that van Leeuwen possesses the necessary documentation. “Van Leeuwen is accredited and makes stories for RTL News with the permission of the local authority,” the broadcaster stated.
RTL’s editor-in-chief, Ilse OpenNeer, has announced an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest. “We are finding out exactly what the suspicion is,” OpenNeer said.
“We understand that she is being interrogated by the police. Her things have been searched. There is currently a lawyer with her.” The situation remains fluid as RTL works to clarify the charges and ensure van Leeuwen’s safe departure from Sierra Leone.
