By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, along with key members of his Executive and a delegation from The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL), visited the Waterloo Police Division and various crime scenes on Friday, 17 January 2025, to follow up on the investigation into the murder of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia.
Superintendent Thomas Robyn Mansaray, the Support Officer at the Waterloo Police Division, informed the delegation that the investigation into Samuel Brima Mattia’s death is progressing, with four individuals currently in custody assisting with inquiries. He assured that the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is handling the case with the utmost seriousness, aiming to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Support Officer explained that the police initially received a missing person report in the early hours of Thursday, 16 January 2025. This led to the discovery of a body near the perimeter fence of the Waterloo Correctional Centre, later identified as Samuel Brima Mattia by family and community members. Based on gathered intelligence, the police questioned the Station Manager of VOPAD Radio, Joseph Lamin, and another individual. Two additional staff members from the radio station were also invited for further questioning, with four individuals now aiding the investigation.
SLAJ President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, urging the police to take the necessary time to ensure justice is served. While advocating for justice for their late colleague, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla highlighted that the detained individuals, who are also journalists, are of significant interest to SLAJ. He called on the police to conduct a professional and impartial investigation.
He also appealed to the detained journalists to cooperate fully with the police, providing any relevant information that could aid the investigation. He assured that SLAJ is closely monitoring the situation.
Following their visit to the police, the SLAJ and SWASAL delegation visited VOPAD Radio to extend their condolences to Samuel Brima Mattia’s bereaved family.
It is worth recalling that SLAJ expressed profound sorrow and distress over Samuel Brima Mattia’s tragic killing on 16 January 2025. A former reporter with VOPAD Radio 96.5 FM and an active SWASAL member, his death under brutal and unclear circumstances has shocked the media fraternity and the broader community.
In a press release issued on the day of the incident, SLAJ unequivocally condemned violence against journalists and underscored the urgent need to protect press freedom and the lives of those committed to informing the public. SLAJ urged the Sierra Leone Police to conduct a comprehensive and prompt investigation to ensure the perpetrators are held accountable.
“Such a horrific crime must not go unpunished,” SLAJ stated. “As we mourn our colleague, we stand in solidarity with SWASAL, Mattia’s family and all affected by this tragic incident.”
SLAJ also confirmed that they are in communication with the CID Waterloo Division, which is handling the investigation, and reiterated their commitment to advocating for the safety and protection of journalists across the nation.
In a separate press release, the Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC), led by Chairman Kasho J. Holland-Cole, expressed shock and sadness over Samuel Brima Mattia’s death. WARDC condemned the violent act, describing it as a grave attack on freedom of speech and community safety. The Council called on the SLP to conduct an immediate, thorough and impartial investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
WARDC stressed that violence against journalists or any individual is unacceptable and urged community unity to ensure such acts are not repeated. The Council extended its deepest condolences to Samuel Brima Mattia’s family, friends and colleagues, pledging solidarity with the media community. They also appealed to anyone with relevant information to cooperate with authorities to aid the investigation and deliver justice for his family.