By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a major development, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have announced a breakthrough in the investigation of the brutal murder of journalist, Samuel Brima Mattia. The principal suspect, Joseph M. Lamin, the Station Manager of VOPAD Radio, has confessed to orchestrating the crime. According to the police, the suspect hired a group of individuals, including one Morlai, to carry out the heinous act against his deputy, Samuel Brima Mattia.
The swift action by the police has led to the arrest of the alleged hired killers, who are now providing crucial assistance in the ongoing investigation. The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has praised the SLP for their prompt and decisive efforts, urging them to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and thoroughly.
In a public statement, SLAJ reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitoring the progress of the investigation. They emphasized their determination to see that all responsible parties are held accountable, reinforcing the importance of justice for the slain journalist. SLAJ’s appeal to the police highlights the collective call for transparency and fairness in handling the case.
Earlier, the President of SLAJ, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, accompanied by key members of his Executive and a delegation from The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL), visited the Waterloo Police Division and several crime scenes. This visit, on Friday, 17 January 2025, was part of their concerted efforts to follow up on the investigation into Mattia’s murder, which occurred inside VOPAD Radio 96.5FM.
The tragic killing of Samuel Brima Mattia has resonated deeply within the journalism community, drawing attention to the perils faced by media professionals. The involvement of SLAJ and SWASAL underscores the gravity of the incident and the collective resolve for a meticulous and transparent inquiry to bring those responsible to justice.
