Togo detains French filmmakers over alleged permit irregularities

Togolese authorities have issued a formal statement regarding the detention of two French filmmakers, Gaël Mocaër and Sebastian Perez Pezzani, and their Togolese collaborator, Fred Vedomey. The trio was arrested on July 27 while filming an episode of the documentary series ‘Les Routes de l’impossible’ for France Télévisions.

The Togolese ministries of Justice and Security claim to possess ‘serious and consistent evidence’ to support charges of ‘false declarations.’ Authorities allege the team operated outside their permitted filming zones, specifically in the Savanes region and Binah prefecture, and used a drone without prior declaration of its specifications. They also noted that the filming authorization was issued solely in the name of the Togolese fixer, Vedomey.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Togolese Press Association have condemned the detention, describing it as ‘unjustified and disproportionate.’ RSF has highlighted that Perez Pezzani is facing serious health issues requiring urgent care. While the Togolese government maintains the case is strictly an administrative matter regarding permit compliance, critics argue the incident threatens press freedom and Togo’s international reputation.