Sierra Leone detains Dutch journalist on espionage claims

Handcuffs

Dutch journalist Sophie Van Leeuwen was detained in Sierra Leone on February 13, 2025 on suspicion of espionage.

Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group

Sierra Leonean authorities on Thursday detained a Dutch journalist on suspicion of espionage.

Sophie Van Leeuwen was picked up while reporting in the capital, Freetown, and police said she was suspected of filming without a permit.