The management of News Central TV has called for the immediate release of two of its staff arrested while covering developments in Maputo, Mozambique.
TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports News Central TV made the call in a statement released on Friday after the staff were arrested on 14th November.
The TV station disclosed the names of the staff as Bongani Siziba and Sbonelo Mkhasibe, and that despite efforts, no direct contact has been established with them since their arrest.
The statement also disclosed that the TV house is collaborating with all relevant authorities and diplomatic channels to ensure their immediate and safe release.
The statement reads: “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.
“Our colleagues were detained yesterday, November 14 2024 while conducting their professional duties as journalists, reporting on unfolding events within the country. Despite our efforts, we have been unable to establish direct contact with them since their arrest.
“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”.