GoNE Condemns Police Summons of Editor Over Cocaine Report

GoNE Condemns Police Summons of Editor Over Cocaine Report

The Guild of Newspaper Editors (GoNE) has formally condemned the Sierra Leone Police for summoning David Johnson, Editor of Voice of Salone, to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The police visit followed a publication regarding an alleged cocaine seizure at Portee Wharf.

In a statement issued June 2, 2026, the Guild characterized the police action as a threat to media freedom and the country’s democratic space. While acknowledging the police mandate to investigate crimes, the Guild argued that such powers must respect constitutional protections for freedom of expression.

GoNE emphasized that reporting on matters of public interest is essential for transparency and accountability. The body questioned the necessity of the summons, asserting that journalists are not state investigators and should not be treated as evidence repositories for law enforcement.

The Guild warned that targeting journalists could create a "chilling effect" on investigative reporting, discouraging media practitioners from covering issues of national importance. It called on the Sierra Leone Police leadership to explain the incident and guarantee the safety of media institutions.

"The freedom of the press is not a privilege granted by the State; it is a constitutional right and an indispensable pillar of democratic governance," the Guild stated. 

The organization concluded by expressing solidarity with Johnson and reaffirming its commitment to defending editorial independence and the rule of law.