‘Standard’ journalist receives threats

By Grace Wekesa

Following an expose by The Standard about massive corruption at the Malaba border point, some individuals have been trailing the author of the article.

The journalist now fears that his life is in danger. He is asking the Government to offer him security. It is suspected some Government officials want to intimidate him for exposing corruption.

"You are treading on dangerous grounds," read the message sent to his mobile phone. His investigation revealed massive corruption by police officers and customs officers at the border town.

On Thursday, Sammy Jakaa reported the matter to the Teso North DC Josephine Onunga at Amagoro office.

The DC who chairs the District Security Council acknowledged receipt of the complaint and instructed the journalist to record a statement with the police to expedite investigations.

Onunga said it was the journalist’s constitutional right to be protected by the Government.

She assured him that proper investigations would be carried out to establish the claims. A Malaba-based lawyer James Emurugat said the threats against the journalist are a direct threat to the freedom of the media.

"This threatens to rob off the citizens of the much needed information which has a bearing on their socio-economic growth," he said.

Anxiety gripped Malaba town after The Standard expose on Tuesday.

Residents, drivers and traders of the town lauded The Standard for the exemplary work, and said for the first time, their concerns were brought to the limelight.

The drivers said the officers indiscriminately arrested them. The parking yard remained deserted as people kept off for fear of being arrested.