Vanuatu media concerned about intimidation

Vanuatu Media Association executives say they have received information that some of its members were forced by police officers to divulge their sources of information.

The Association says they are aware that police officers approached some of its members to reveal sources regarding a story about the promotion of some senior police officers last year when Aru Maralau was the acting commissioner.

Mr Maralau is currently on suspension.

The Association says it is also concerned that members were threatened with arrest if they refused to reveal their sources.

The Association president, Evelyne Toa, is calling on acting commissioner, Malon Taleo, to inform his officers to respect the media organisations.

She says journalists are only writers as the final decision to publish a story depends on the editors.

Ms Toa said journalists are now ready to cover the snap elections and don't need police intimidation on the eve of the polling day.