By Hassan Gbassay Koroma
Alleged Killer Joseph Lamin
Murdered Journalist Mattia
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has confirmed that Joseph M. Lamin, Station Manager of VOPAD Radio 96.5 FM in Waterloo, has confessed to orchestrating the brutal murder of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia, who was also his deputy at the station.
In his confession, Lamin reportedly admitted to police investigators that he had ongoing disputes with the deceased. This animosity led him to hire street thugs to “deal with” Mattia. Lamin specifically named a man known as Morlai, whom he tasked with assembling a group to attack the journalist.
According to the confession, the hired thugs ambushed Mattia at the radio station, where they tied him up, viciously beat him to death, and later disposed of his body.
Minister Bah revealed that the police have arrested several suspects, including the alleged thugs hired by Lamin. The suspects have corroborated the station manager’s confession, providing critical evidence that aligns with the timeline of events.
The police have assured the public that they are conducting a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served.
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has lauded the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) for their swift action and the significant progress made in the case. In a statement, SLAJ urged the police to continue their efforts and deliver justice for the late journalist.
“We commend the SLP for their diligent investigation and call on them to ensure that all those involved in this heinous act are held accountable. SLAJ will continue to monitor the proceedings closely,” the statement read.
Mattia, a father of two and a dedicated broadcast journalist, was last seen alive on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. His lifeless body was discovered the following day in a body bag, sparking outrage and calls for justice across the country.
Minister Bah has reiterated the government’s commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists. He urged the police to leave no stone unturned in their investigation, emphasizing that the government will not tolerate such acts of violence against members of the press.
