On 12 October 2026, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) issued a press release condemning the alleged brutal assault on journalist Ishmail Stanley Bangura Jr., Production Manager at Hope FM 93.3, in Makeni City, Northern Sierra Leone. SLAJ described the incident as “gravely concerning” and called for an immediate investigation. According to SLAJ, Bangura was attacked on 2 October 2026 at the APC District Office in Makeni by men believed to be party marshals linked to Emmanuel Alie Kamara (“Alie General”), APC Chairman for Bombali District. Bangura had gone to the office to cover a reported fracas between rival APC factions. Upon arrival, he observed vandalism and began documenting the scene with a Hope FM phone. Despite identifying himself as a journalist, he was allegedly punched and assaulted, and two phones—one belonging to Hope FM and one personal—were seized. Both remain in the custody of the attackers.
Bangura was later rescued and taken to the Rogbaneh Police Division, where he lodged a complaint and received medical documentation. SLAJ reiterated its principle that “An Attack On One Journalist Is An Attack On All”, urging the APC leadership to dissociate itself from the act, guarantee journalist safety, and ensure accountability. Hope FM also condemned the assault and filed formal complaints.
The APC Bombali District Secretariat responded, condemning the attack as unacceptable and contrary to democratic values. It pledged support for press freedom, journalist safety, and party unity. Chairman-elect Emmanuel Alie Kargbo “Alie General” distanced himself from the violence, promising to take steps to address the matter responsibly and uphold press freedom. The Secretariat further called on APC members to remain calm, resolve disputes through dialogue, and encouraged constructive engagement between Bangura and Hope FM management to reach an amicable resolution.