A shocking video capturing a confrontation between Top FM journalist Murvind Beetun and a group of people, believed to be members of the PHQ Special Striking Team (SST), has sent shockwaves through the journalistic community, igniting fears of a relentless assault on press freedom and journalists’ security.
The incident, which unfolded during the popular “Radar Lepep” radio show on Top FM last week, exposed the confrontation between Beetun and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ashik Jagai, the head of the SST, regarding explosive recordings revealed by Radio Plus that unearthed alleged unlawful activities carried out by the SST and other police units.
The video, rapidly disseminated across social media platforms, has thrust viewers into the heart of a tense exchange within the corridors of Top FM.
In this footage, Beetun appears visibly shaken and subjected to intimidation and verbal abuse by the law enforcement officers and other people.
The disturbing nature of the encounter has prompted Beetun to swiftly lodge a formal complaint with the Central Criminal Investigation Department (CCID), outlining the threats and attempted acts of intimidation he endured during the break in the radio show.
Taking to his Facebook page to shed light on the incident, Beetun revealed a deepening sense of hostility aimed directly at him since the interview.
Fearing for his personal safety, he expressed the pressure to remain silent and withhold the truth about the alarming encounter he faced.
Some of the people were not police officers, he said.
This episode has transcended the confines of traditional political alignments, as even figures outside the mainstream parties join in the resounding chorus of condemnation.
Ashok Subron of Rezistans ek Alternativ forcefully denounced the incident, declaring it as proof of the tightening grip of mafia influence within Mauritian society.
Jack Bizlall, a former Member of Parliament and seasoned union negotiator, pledged unwavering support to rally news organizations in solidarity with Beetun.
He warned of the grave dangers that journalists pursuing investigative reporting currently face, signaling an urgent need to address the ominous threats encroaching upon the very pillars of press freedom.
Source: Defi Media, L’Express
