In our 17th August 2026 publication, we carried banner headline that reads: “SLPHA, A DRUG TRANSHIPMENT HUB” which drew some negative attentions to the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority (SLPHA).
We based our report on information that was provided by anonymous source. We erred in our analysis of the evidence provided and rushed with the publication.
But on subsequent review of the information and the evidence provided in their entirety, we have realized that they were inadequate and they actually fell short of verification required for publication.
We are therefore appealing to our wider readership not to countenance the content of that particular article published in the Nightwatch Newspaper of 17th August, 2026 under the title: “SLPHA, A DRUG TRANSHIPMENT HUB”. The said article is not worthy for any reference and consideration as tool for any negative reference to the SLPHA.
We are deeply sorry for any disrepute that publication may have caused to the management and corporate standing of the Authority.
See below letter our letter of apology to the SLPHA through its legal representative, Brewah & Co of 24, Pademba Road, Freetown.
RE: UNRESERVED APOLOGY AND RETRACTION REGARDING PUBLICATION OF 17TH AUGUST 2026 TITLED “SLPHA, A DRUG TRANSHIPMENT HUB”
We refer to the above publication and write to convey our unreserved apology to your client, the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), for the allegations contained therein and for any embarrassment, inconvenience or reputational harm the publication may have caused.
Upon subsequent review, we have established that the information relied upon to support the allegations was inadequate and did not meet the level of verification required for a publication of such a serious nature. We therefore acknowledge that the article should not have been published in the form in which it appeared.
The Nightwatch Newspaper accepts responsibility for this editorial lapse and sincerely regrets the error. We wish to emphasise that the publication was not motivated by any personal animosity, malice or improper motive towards the Authority, its Managing Director, officers or staff.
We hereby undertake to publish a clear retraction and apology in a subsequent edition of the newspaper, with appropriate prominence.
We hold the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority in high regard and recognise its important contribution to national development, trade facilitation and revenue generation.
Please accept our sincere and unreserved apology.
Yours faithfully,
Emmanuel Christian Thorli
Managing Editor,
.
Cc:
1: The Independent Media Commission
2: The Director General, Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority.