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The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has issued a press freedom alert following the invitation and subsequent detention of journalist Thomas Dixon, Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
According to SLAJ, the police action is believed to be connected to publications involving Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG). The association said it is engaging with the authorities to verify the details of the matter and ensure that due process is upheld. SLAJ further assured its members and the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as developments unfold.
The Gleaner Newspaper reports that Dixon was informed by Kabba Lavalie, Director of Cybersecurity at CID, that he would be detained after providing written statements to investigators.
Lavalie reportedly said the detention is tied to an ongoing investigation into the accuracy of a news alert published by the New Age Newspaper concerning a dispute between LRMG and the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT).
The publication in question reportedly covered NASSIT’s criminal summons against the Chief Executive Officer of Leone Rock Metal Group. In response, LRMG lodged complaints of cyberbullying and cyberstalking against the New Age Newspaper.
SLAJ has reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom in Sierra Leone, while calling for restraint and adherence to legal procedures in handling the case.
