Togo: two French journalists arrested and detained since the end of July, confirms Paris.

The case, revealed by Togolese press and then confirmed by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, involves two professionals who were working on a subject intended for a French television channel. The Quai d’Orsay describes them as “directors” employed by a production company.

Togolese media indicate that their work was to be broadcast by one of the France Télévisions channels. However, the public audiovisual group has not communicated on this matter, and the exact subject of the report remains unknown.

According to French diplomacy, the two men are currently subject to a judicial investigation conducted by an investigating magistrate in Lomé. No official details have been provided regarding the offenses they may be accused of, nor about their potential indictment.

Three consular visits since July 27

French consular services have been able to meet with the two detainees three times since July 27. The ministry states that it is monitoring their situation to ensure their detention conditions, their health status, and the respect of their defense rights.

The exact location of their arrest has not been confirmed. The Togolese media L’Alternative mentions an arrest in the northern part of the country, although this information has not been officially validated by Togolese or French authorities.

Part of northern Togo, particularly the Savanes region, has been under a state of emergency since 2022. This border area is subject to significant security measures due to incursions attributed to jihadist groups active in northern Ghana and Benin, as well as in neighboring countries.