SANEF condemns attack on writer & columnist Ismail Lagardien in Kleinmond's abalone protest

6 October 2020

Dear Members of the Media

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is deeply concerned by the attack on writer and columnist, Ismail Lagardien who was seriously injured covering the Kleinmond abalone protests on Monday.

SANEF believes that every citizen should be seriously troubled by such reports as journalists go out in the field to tell community stories, both fairly and accurately.

When a frustrated community turns its anger on journalists, it has severe consequences for our democracy. The media must reflect all sides in conflict situations - and the public must respect the essential role of the press.

Lagardien was seriously injured on Monday evening after protests erupted in the Overberg town of Kleinmond following the arrest of five alleged perlemoen poachers. Lagardien is now in hospital awaiting surgery for a broken jaw sustained when a brick flew in through the passenger window.

Issued by Hopewell Radebe, Projects and Office Manager, SANEF, 6 October 2020