A delegation of Kinshasa's press corps, led by president Jean-Marie Kassamba, had been searching for journalist Gauthier Sey since his disappearance on Saturday, October 3, 2026. The search effort included visiting several detention centers, but to no avail. It wasn't until late that night that news broke of Sey's hospitalization at Ngaliema clinic. Sey is the patron of Netic TV.
According to reports, Sey was abducted by unidentified individuals and subjected to torture. He was found in an unconscious state, with his phones confiscated and his clothes torn. This incident has sparked concerns for Sey's safety and well-being, as well as that of his family and colleagues. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance and treatment have raised questions about the treatment of journalists in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Union of Congolese Journalists (UNPC) Kinshasa chapter had appealed to the country's security services to assist in locating Sey. The organization expressed concern about the practice of arresting journalists without informing their families, colleagues, or regulatory bodies. UNPC Kinshasa had also called on the country's justice system and intelligence services to take necessary actions to prevent such incidents and ensure Sey's safety.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from the journalistic community, with many calling for solidarity and action to prevent similar incidents in the future. The UNPC and other media organizations are planning large-scale actions to denounce the treatment of journalists in the country. Sey's ordeal has highlighted the risks faced by journalists in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The country's authorities have been urged to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sey's disappearance and to hold those responsible accountable. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety and security of journalists in the country, particularly in the lead-up to elections. The Congolese government has been urged to ensure that journalists are able to work freely and without fear of reprisal.
The journalist's health condition is currently unknown, but reports indicate that he is receiving treatment at Ngaliema clinic. The incident has sparked a wave of concern and solidarity from the journalistic community, both locally and internationally. Many have expressed their support for Sey and his family, and have called for greater protection for journalists in the country.
The incident has also raised questions about the role of security services in the country and their treatment of journalists. The Congolese government has been urged to ensure that security services respect the rights of journalists and do not engage in arbitrary arrests or torture. The case of Gauthier Sey has highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency in the country's security sector.
Key points
- Journalist Gauthier Sey was found at Ngaliema clinic after a day-long disappearance.
- Sey was subjected to torture and his phones and clothes were confiscated.
- The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for action to protect journalists in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
