The following Statement is issued by SEARCHLIGHT in light of a threat made this week to one of its Reporters

Earlier this week, the newspaper SEARCHLIGHT had occasion to lodge a report with Law Enforcement consequent upon a threat issued via WhatsApp to one of our reporters.

We condemn in the strongest terms, any threat or threats issued to our Reporters or Members of our Staff, and we will ensure they are reported to the Police.

Our Reporters make every effort to ensure that their reports on events and about people across our multi-island State are fair and factual. At times, the content of the information being reported may be upsetting to individuals.

However, as a people, when we feel we have been wronged, our default response SHOULD NEVER BE violence or the threat of violence. There are many acceptable ways to raise objections, and issuing threats is not one of them.

SEARCHLIGHT is unequivocal in its commitment to Free Speech within the confines of the Law, this is a pillar on which our Democracy stands. We are equally committed to supporting our Reporting Staff, and will use all lawful means at our disposal in their defense as they carry out their legitimate duties.