The Port-au-Prince City Hall calls for caution among journalists in the context of the fight against armed gangs.
The Port-au-Prince City Hall urges all journalists and reporters to exercise the utmost caution when covering simulation exercises or police operations against armed gangs.
In a press release, the City Hall highlights several essential instructions to ensure the safety of information professionals. “It is strictly forbidden to follow armored vehicles or other military equipment in motion, as this could endanger the lives of journalists. It is recommended to collect information before operations and to limit oneself to a safe distance without interfering with ongoing activities,” we can read in this press release.
The City Hall also encourages journalists to focus their reporting efforts after the events, when it is considered the safest and most appropriate time to collect testimonies and detailed information. “The safety of journalists is paramount, and it is crucial that they take all necessary precautions to protect their lives while informing the population,” the statement said.
The City Hall of Port-au-Prince Through this press release, we express our gratitude to journalists for their commitment and dedication to providing vital information to citizens, hoping that they will carry out this essential mission with professionalism and prudence.
Let us recall that Prime Minister Garry Conille, during an address to the nation on Wednesday evening, declared a state of security emergency in 14 communes controlled by armed gangs in the West and Artibonite departments. He insisted that journalists should not broadcast reports that could reveal the modus operandi of the police to gang members.