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Alert

Reporter under security surveillance

(MISA/IFEX) - A "Sunday Standard" reporter, Reuben Pitse, has confirmed to MISA Botswana that his sources have alerted him that he was under security surveillance following his story on the killing of John Kalafatis by security agents on May 13, 2009. The controversial shooting has absorbed the office of the Presidency with allegations that the Presidency was aware of the actions of the security forces.

Interviewed by MISA Botswana on May 27, Pitse said, "I take extra care to protect my sources as anyone I speak to could be suspected of leaking security information to me."

Accusations of security spying on innocent people have recently intensified since the creation of the new spy organisation Directorate on Intelligence and Security. Trade unionists and other people who often hold opposing views from the authorities, including the ruling party factions, have often reported being spied upon.

The government is currently demanding that every mobile phone, including prepaid sim cards, be registered. MISA sees this as a way of facilitating eavesdropping on innocent people and as a result discouraging whistle blowing.