Togo detains French filmmakers over documentary filming irregularities

Togolese authorities have detained two French filmmakers, Gaël Mocaër and Sebastian Perez Pezzani, and their Togolese collaborator, Fred Vedomey, since July 27. The team was arrested in northern Togo while filming an episode of the documentary series ‘Les Routes de l’impossible’ for France Télévisions.

The individuals face charges of ‘false declarations’ following allegations that they used a drone in sensitive security zones and operated with unauthorized or incomplete permits. Togolese ministries of Security and Justice stated they possess ‘serious and corroborative evidence’ regarding these irregularities. Authorities noted that the filming authorization presented was limited to specific localities and was issued only in the name of the Togolese collaborator.

As of recent reports, Sebastian Perez Pezzani has been released under judicial control and is receiving hospital treatment following health concerns raised by Reporters Without Borders. However, Gaël Mocaër and Fred Vedomey remain incarcerated in Lomé after their requests for provisional release were rejected. The production company, Tony Comiti Productions, maintains that the team complied with all regulations, and their lawyer denies the charges.