Freetown
Sierra Leone’s police have confirmed the detention of Dutch journalist Sophie Van Leeuwen in Freetown, where she was arrested on the peninsular while accompanied by a local journalist.
Authorities stated that Sophie is being questioned in connection with possible espionage and for allegedly filming a documentary without the required permissions. The local journalist with her mentioned that Sophie had indicated she was accredited by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) as a foreign journalist in Sierra Leone. Sophie reportedly attended a recent press briefing held by the Ministry, where she also posed questions.
Eastina Boimadi Taylor, President of Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), confirmed that Sophie had reached out to her prior to her visit, seeking help to secure media accreditation.
Sierra Leone’s police have assured the public that Sophie is considered innocent until proven guilty and that a thorough, impartial investigation is underway. They will decide whether to close the case or continue their inquiries based on the findings of this investigation.
Sophie Van Leeuwen serves as the Africa correspondent for RTL Nieuws.
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) is closely monitoring the situation and has called for proper legal procedures to be followed, emphasizing the importance of press freedom throughout the process. Further updates will be shared as more details emerge.