By Sallieu S. Kanu
The Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC) is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic death of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia, who was found dead in Waterloo on Thursday.
Samuel Brima Mattia, a journalist working for Radio VOPAD 96.5 FM, was known for his dedication to serving the community through his work in the media.
“This heinous act is not only a loss to the media fraternity but also a grave attack on freedom of speech and the safety of residents in our district. The Western Area Rural District Council strongly condemns this brutal and senseless act of violence,” Council said in a statement.
“We call on the Sierra Leone Police to launch an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation to ensure that the perpetrators of this crime are brought to justice. Violence against journalists or any individual is unacceptable, and we must unite as a community to ensure that such acts do not go unpunished.”
Chairman of WARDC, Kasho J. Holland -Cole extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Samuel Brima Mattia during this difficult time, adding that council stands in solidarity with the media community and remains committed to supporting efforts to safeguard the rights and safety of all residents in the Western Area Rural District.
“We urge anyone with relevant information about this incident to cooperate with the authorities to help bring justice to the family of the deceased,” he said.