Togo has detained two French journalists and their Togolese fixer since July 27, 2026, sparking international calls for their immediate release. Gaël Mocaër and Sebastian Perez Pezzani, working for Tony Comiti Productions, were arrested alongside Fred Venum, their Togolese collaborator. They now face charges of “false statements” after being held for weeks.
The three individuals were filming for the France 5 documentary programme, Les Routes de l’impossible, near Kara in northern Togo. Their arrest occurred about 20 kilometres from the Benin border. Initially placed under house arrest, they were later remanded into custody and formally charged on August 17. They are currently held at the Agoè Logopé police camp near Lomé.
This incident occurs within a broader regional context where press freedom faces increasing scrutiny across West Africa. Several countries in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have seen journalists detained or face legal challenges. Such actions often raise questions about democratic governance and the space for independent reporting. The situation in Togo adds to concerns about media professionals operating in politically sensitive environments.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has strongly condemned the detentions, describing them as “unjustified and disproportionate.” RSF urged Togolese authorities to release the three men immediately. The French Foreign Ministry confirmed the detention of its two nationals on August 18. It stated that French authorities had conducted three consular visits since July 27. The ministry is working to ensure their rights, health, and detention conditions are respected.
Tony Comiti Productions maintains that the journalists entered Togo with proper work visas and filming authorisation from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts. The production company also stated they had secured a filming permit and declared their equipment to customs officials. However, Togo’s High Authority for the Regulation of Written, Audiovisual and Digital Communication (HARC) disputes these claims. HARC stated it received no accreditation request from France Télévisions or the journalists. It also claimed it was not informed of their arrival or filming activities. HARC insists that the courts must determine the circumstances surrounding their presence and activities in Togo.
The detention has caused significant distress among the families of the journalists. They have expressed deep concern, particularly regarding Sebastian Perez Pezzani’s health. He reportedly suffers from serious health problems requiring immediate medical attention. Both journalists are fathers, with one having a 13-year-old child. This situation underscores the human impact of such detentions on individuals and their families.
The international community will closely watch the developments in this case. The outcome could influence perceptions of press freedom and the rule of law in Togo. It also highlights the risks faced by journalists covering sensitive topics in the region. Decision-makers and human rights organisations will monitor how Togolese authorities handle these charges. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between national security and media freedom. It also stresses the importance of transparent legal processes for all individuals, including foreign nationals.