The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has condemned the killing of police officer ASP Mathew Moiwah Gbanya aka “Boyka” on Saturday 8 April 2023 in Makeni, Northern Sierra Leone.

SLAJ, in a press release dated 9th April 2023, stated that they condemned the act and are concerned about the safety and security of everybody working and living in the country, as the country is heading to it’s general elections on 24 June 2023.

The association noted that reports of such unlawful killing is unacceptable and puts the nation in a state of fear and uncertainty.

“This is a very worrisome situation developing in our country. If police officers become targets then nobody is safe in this country. I am also concerned about the safety and security of journalists covering the elections. We all need a safe and conducive environment to participate freely in the elections,” said SLAJ President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla.

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SLAJ further noted they are concerned about today’s report by the Sierra Leone Police of the alleged shooting of a commercial motorbike rider at Mano Corner, Lumpa, Waterloo.

“Police found a ‘shotgun, cartridges, super glue, and quantity of face masks’ at the crime scene. There seems to be a proliferation of arms and ammunition in the wrong hands,” the association stated.

SLAJ then called on the SLP to swiftly, thoroughly, and impartially investigate the incidents and bring the alleged culprits to answer to the law.

The association also noted that they equally condemn the spreading of messages of incitement, promoting hate, division, and violence, and appealed to the public, especially supporters of political parties and journalists at home and abroad, to refrain from disseminating speculative and unsubstantiated information to a gullible public.

“Journalists, especially those working in Makeni, can help the Police with reliable information that will lead to the arrest of whoever is/are responsible,” SLAJ concluded.