SWASAL condemns brutal killing of sports journalist, demands urgent investigation

The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL) stands resolutely against the brutal murder of their esteemed colleague, Samuel Brima Mattia, whose lifeless body was tragically discovered in a pool of his own blood on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Mattia, a dedicated and vibrant journalist at Vopad Radio 96.5FM in Waterloo and a SWASAL member, was found dead after he went missing the day before (January 15).

“This despicable act is a direct assault on freedom of speech and raises serious concerns about the safety of journalists carrying out their duties. Together with our parent body, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), we demand that the Sierra Leone Police launch an immediate and thorough investigation, ensuring that those responsible face the full force of the law,” SWASAL President Sahr Morris Jr said.

“Mattia was not only a cherished member of our association but a shining light in the field of sports journalism. His loss has left us shattered and outraged at the vile and heinous nature of his death.”

SWASAL called on it members to join the Association in their outcry for justice by using the hashtag “#JusticeForMattia” across all platforms adding that violence against journalists cannot be tolerated, and we must come together to strongly condemn such atrocities.