News Central TV has reported the detention of two of its South African correspondents in Mozambique.
In a statement released on Friday, the media organization confirmed that journalist Bongani Siziba and cameraman Sbonelo Mkhasibe were arrested on Thursday while covering events in Maputo, the country’s capital.
The organization expressed concern over the incident, stating that all attempts to directly contact the detained journalists have been unsuccessful.
“News Central TV expresses deep concern over the arrest and detention of our South African correspondent, Bongani Siziba, and our cameraman, Sbonelo Mkhasibe, who were arrested while covering developments in Maputo, Mozambique,” the statement said.
It added, “Our colleagues were detained yesterday, November 14, 2024, while conducting their professional duties as journalists, reporting on unfolding events within the country.
“News Central TV is collaborating with all relevant authorities and diplomatic channels to ensure their immediate and safe release.
“We strongly advocate for freedom of the press and urge the authorities to uphold journalists’ rights to carry out their duties without hindrance.
“We remain committed to providing accurate and unbiased coverage across Africa and call for the respect and protection of journalists and media practitioners everywhere.”
The media house urged Mozambican authorities to uphold press freedom and ensure journalists are allowed to carry out their work without obstruction.
