Threatening Sunday Times reporters

Today this newspaper reports that it has had to take precautions to ensure the safety of its investigative reporters, Mzilikazi wa Afrika and Stephan Hofstatter. It's a sad indictment of the times that these journalists have become the story, instead of reporting it.

Publishing information about reporters is not something this newspaper does lightly. But it firmly believes that shining a light on evil is its best defence. Making it public reduces the risk of any "accidents" befalling its staff.

Over several months the Sunday Times has become aware that the communications and movements of both journalists have been monitored. Security service officials have admitted as much to them. Their own sources have also confirmed this. While this has impacted on their ability to do their jobs, the Sunday Times has worked around these impediments.

This harassment, however, has recently taken a more sinister turn. Wa Afrika had a gun held to his head by what appeared to be police officers. They fled when they realised he had a passenger in his car. Last Sunday he received a call warning him he was in danger.

It's not far-fetched to fear that people who stand to lose wealth, power and position because of the pair's fearless reporting could resort to drastic, illegal actions.

Left unchecked, the intimidation of journalists threatens our open society. It has a far more chilling effect than the proposed "secrecy bill" and media tribunal.

Without these courageous journalists, the profligacy of Sicelo Shiceka would have remained a secret. And R1.6-billion of your money would have been spent on dodgy leases.

The Sunday Times will continue to keep you informed. Because you do have the right to know.