By Hassan Gbassay Koroma
Journalist Samuel Brima Mattia was brutally murdered and dumpt
Support Officer at the Waterloo Police Division, Superintendent Thomas Robin Mansaray, has told Concord Times that they were conducting full investigations into the brutal murder of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia, who was found dead in Waterloo.
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) last Thursday in a press release expressed distress regarding the tragic killing of Samuel Brima Mattia, a former reporter with VOPAD Radio 96.5 FM in Waterloo.
SLAJ unequivocally condemns any form of violence against journalists and emphasizes the necessity of protecting press freedom and the lives of those who diligently work to inform and educate the public.
“We urge the Sierra Leone Police to undertake a comprehensive and prompt investigation into the events surrounding Samuel’s death,” SLAJ noted.
According to superintendent Mansaray, the remains of Mattia were discovered at Kissy Town close to Vopad Radio where he used to work.
He said they already have two people in their custody helping with the investigation.
“We are already obtaining statements from the arrested individuals. Their statements will determine our next step,” he said.
He said they were still trying to ascertain the cause of his death and that no witnesses(s) have come forward to testify to the police.
He continued that before the discovery of the remains of Mattia, a report of a missing person was made to the police on behalf of the deceased.
“The investigation is still young. We are still trying to ascertain what led to his death. And, at this stage, we don’t have enough information yet about the incident,” he said.
The Sierra Leone Sports Writers Association also condemned the brutal murder of their constituent member and called on the police to conduct speedy investigations.
