PRESS FREEDOM: SSA seeks to shut media, public out of R12m spy trial, citing intelligence risk
The State Security Agency wants the media and public banned from attending and reporting on the trial of former intelligence officials Thulani “Silence” Dlomo and Patrick Mshothola, claiming that it could expose intelligence sources, operational methods and classified information. Media organisations are fighting for access.
The South African State Security Agency (SSA) is seeking to restrict access to and reporting on the trial of former intelligence officials Thulani "Silence" Dlomo and Patrick Mshothola. The agency claims that releasing the evidence could expose sensitive intelligence sources, methods and classified information. Media organizations, including Media24, amaBhungane, Daily Maverick, and the Campaign for Free Expression, are challenging the SSA's request in court.
The SSA argues that protection of witness identity through pseudonyms or screening is insufficient to prevent disclosure of intelligence techniques and sources. The agency's objective is to shield its operations, methods, and personnel, rather than to protect the accused from accountability. Media groups argue that the SSA's concerns can be mitigated through targeted restrictions, rather than a blanket ban on public access and reporting.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
