As SLAJ & SWASAL cry for justice… Journalist Allegedly Killed in Waterloo
Four people are currently in police custody at the Waterloo Police Division assisting with the investigation of the mysterious death of a former staff of the VOPAD Radio situated in Waterloo, Western Rural Area of the republic of Sierra Leone.
The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasarall, along with members of his executive team and a delegation from the Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL), visited the Waterloo Police Division and the crime scenes to follow up on the investigation into the killing of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia.
During the visit, Superintendent Thomas Robyn Mansaray, the Support Officer at the Waterloo Police Division, provided an update on the case. He confirmed that four individuals are currently in custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation. Superintendent Mansaray assured the delegation that the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice for the slain journalist.
He explained that the investigation began after receiving a report of a missing person in the early hours of Thursday, 16 January 2025. Subsequently, a body was discovered near the perimeter fence of the Waterloo Correctional Centre. Family and community members later identified the deceased as Samuel Brima Mattia. Following intelligence leads, the police invited the Station Manager of VOPAD Radio, Joseph Lamin, and another individual for questioning. Two additional staff members from the radio station were later brought in for further inquiry.
SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasarall urged the police to conduct a thorough and professional investigation, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the truth and ensuring justice. He acknowledged that, while SLAJ is focused on seeking justice for their colleague, they are also concerned about the welfare of the detained journalists. He called on the police to handle the case with professionalism and fairness.
President Nasarall further encouraged the detained journalists to cooperate fully with the investigation and provide any information that could aid the inquiry. He assured them that SLAJ is closely monitoring the situation to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the process.
The SLAJ and SWASAL delegation also visited VOPAD Radio and met with the bereaved family to extend their condolences and support during this difficult time.
