MBABANE: Phindile Vilakati, the eSwatini Police Spokesperson attempted to trace Swaziland News journalist Andile Mbingo by demanding to comment through a ground call.
Mbingo was seeking a comment regarding an investigative story about under age children who were arrested by the police for alleged looting during the recent protests in demand for democratic reforms.
After the Police Spokesperson failed to respond to a questionnaire sent via WhatsApp, the journalist called her via a WhatsApp call, Vilakati answered but later demanded that she be called through a ground call that is easily traceable.
“I don’t respond to WhatsApp calls, please call me through a ground call”, said the Police Spokesperson.
Reached for comments, Andile Mbingo said she used the WhatsApp platform for security reasons.
"Honestly it is clear that once you challenge the government and expose the truth about the system, then your life will be in danger. I wish there was a way in which independent journalists can be protected”, she said.
Phindile Vilakati-Police Spokesperson