Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The sports journalism community is reeling after Alusine Rehme Wilson, Northern Region Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL), was savagely assaulted by rogue football fans during Sunday’s explosive Premier League match between Wusum Stars and Bo Rangers.
The horrific incident unfolded at Wusum Stadium as Wilson attempted to conduct post-match interviews with Bo Rangers players. Eyewitnesses describe:- Mob violence from alleged Wusum Stars supporters
– Indiscriminate stone-throwing targeting officials and journalists
– Vicious physical assault leaving Wilson injured
“This wasn’t just an attack on one man – it was an assault on press freedom itself,” said SWASAL’s National Secretary, his voice trembling with anger. “Our colleague was doing his job when thugs decided to make him their punching bag.”
The match – already tense between the Northern rivals – descended into chaos with:
• Players forced to flee the pitch under hail of projectiles
• Referees barricaded in dressing rooms for safety
• Journalists’ equipment damaged in the melee
Shocking mobile footage circulating online shows bloodied journalists scrambling for cover as bottles and stones rain down.
SWASAL’s Demands for Justice
The sports media body has issued an ultimatum to authorities:
1️- Immediate identification and arrest of the ringleader
2️- Lifetime bans for violent supporters
3️- Security overhaul at all Premier League venues
4️- Compensation for injured journalists
“We have eyewitnesses and video evidence,” warned SWASAL’s Legal Advisor. “These hooligans will learn you can’t attack the messengers of the beautiful game.”
- Premier League Board: Promised “swift sanctions”
• Bo Rangers: Condemned “barbaric acts against media”
• Sports Ministry: Ordered emergency security meeting
As Wilson recovers from his injuries, questions swirl about stadium safety and press protection in Sierra Leone’s football. One thing is clear – Sunday’s violence crossed a red line that must never be ignored. BT/4/4/2025
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