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The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) is closely monitoring the situation involving our colleague, journalist Thomas Dixon, and the Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Fayia Sellu.
While there was an initial indication of a possible arrest, we want to assure our members and the general public that Thomas Dixon has NOT been arrested.
This afternoon, the IG contacted me to express his frustration over a Facebook post by Dixon, in which he (the IG) was described as ‘arrogant’. The IG alleged that the journalist misrepresented him despite providing an explanation over the phone. The IG mentioned the arrest of the journalist.
In response, I engaged the IG, strongly advising against such action and suggesting alternative avenues, including filing a formal complaint with the Independent Media Commission (IMC) or writing directly to SLAJ.
Following my conversation with the IG, I contacted Dixon, who confirmed he was at home. As a precautionary measure, I advised him to temporarily leave his residence.
To further de-escalate the situation, I re-engaged the IG, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the relationship between SLAJ and the security sector. The IG assured me he had considered my advice. However, he urged me to remind journalists to remain professional in their work. He also informed me that he had attempted to reach Dixon several times after our discussion but received no response.
For additional reassurance, I reached out to the Minister of Information and Civic Education and the Chairman of the IMC to understand the situation better and to ensure Dixon’s safety.
We now call on the IG to publicly guarantee the safety and security of Thomas Dixon, allowing him to return to his normal activities without fear.
-Ahmed Sahid Nasralla
President, SLAJ
