The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has condemned the alleged assault on AYV journalist Foday Fofanah, who was reportedly attacked by armed personnel of the Sierra Leone Police on Wednesday, 21st May 2025, at Old Model Road Junction in Freetown.

Fofanah, a camera operator, was returning from an official assignment when he intervened in an altercation between police officers and a commercial motorbike rider concerning the destruction of a female street vendor’s goods. Eyewitnesses indicated that the journalist expressed concern for the vendor, which led to a hostile reaction from the police officers present.

According to statements from SLAJ, the journalist was subjected to physical assault, pepper-spray, and threats involving a firearm. His supervisor, who came to assist following a distress call, was also allegedly threatened. The incident left Fofanah with injuries, including a swollen eye.

SLAJ has described the assault as a dangerous attack on press freedom and an affront to human dignity, calling for an urgent and transparent investigation by the Sierra Leone Police into the matter. “Such treatment of a media professional is deeply concerning and completely unacceptable in a democratic society,” the organization stated.

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The association has urged the police to hold the officers involved accountable, referencing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Office of National Security (ONS) that emphasizes the protection of journalists during their lawful duties.

SLAJ has also called upon the Independent Police Complaints Board (IPCB) and the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) to actively monitor and investigate the incident, with plans to send official letters requesting their support.

While the police have alleged that Fofanah obstructed their operation, SLAJ insists that no level of perceived interference justifies the violent actions taken against him. The organization stressed the importance of proportionality and professionalism in police responses.

SLAJ acknowledged the need for journalists to use sound judgment in interactions with security personnel but highlighted that the incident reflects a troubling pattern of police aggression towards media practitioners, affirming that despite previous engagements aimed at improving relations and ensuring journalist safety, the violence against journalists persists.

SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla stated, “This persistent hostility towards journalists by some members of the Sierra Leone Police is unacceptable. If this trend does not end, SLAJ will be compelled to pursue legal redress. Journalists are not enemies of the state; we are partners in promoting democracy and accountability.”

In light of the incident, SLAJ expressed mutual support to the management and staff of AYV and reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights, safety, and professional integrity of journalists throughout Sierra Leone.