Police Summon Journalist Over Portee Wharf Cocaine Report

Police Summon Journalist Over Portee Wharf Cocaine Report

The Editor of Voice of Salone Newspaper, David Johnson, has reportedly been summoned by officers of the Sierra Leone Police following the publication of a story concerning an alleged cocaine seizure at Portee Wharf. 

Officers in plain clothes visited the newspaper’s office on Monday at 2:00 p.m., requesting to speak with Johnson regarding his report,

“Mystery Surrounds Alleged Cocaine Seizure at Portee Wharf as Questions Emerge Over Missing Cartons.”

While police stated they were investigating claims related to the seizure and sought evidence from the publication, Johnson questioned the investigation’s focus. He argued that authorities should concentrate their inquiries at the wharf, where primary evidence and eyewitness accounts remain accessible, and maintained that his publication constituted standard reporting on a matter of public record.

Although police insisted he accompany them to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a formal statement, Johnson declined, instead advocating for an independent and transparent inquiry.

The incident has drawn concern from media advocacy groups regarding the treatment of journalists covering sensitive public interest stories. The Sierra Leone Police have yet to issue an official statement.