Togo charges two French journalists over incorrect documents, rights group says

Two French journalists, Gaël Mocaër and Sebastian Perez Pezzani, detained in Togo since July 27, have been charged with false declarations, despite possessing the correct documentation to work in the country, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The media rights group expressed alarm over the prolonged situation, which has now lasted over 20 days.

Both journalists were filming a documentary for France Télévisions in Kara, northern Togo. They had valid work visas and authorization to film in the region. The French foreign ministry confirmed their detention, stating that they had been visited by French officials three times. Togolese authorities have not yet commented on the case.

RSF highlighted the possibility of the journalists being held as bargaining chips for an exchange with France, a practice employed by other countries in the past. The pair, who are both seasoned documentary filmmakers, are currently held in pre-trial detention at a law-enforcement facility near Lomé, Togo's capital. One of the journalists, Fred Vedomey, the Togolese fixer, is also being detained.

The French broadcasters France 24 and RFI were recently suspended for three months for allegedly spreading inaccurate and biased information following anti-government protests in Togo. The case is part of broader concerns over press freedom and political dissent in Togo, which has been criticized for widespread corruption and fraud.