'Importance should be placed on safety of journalists'
A Wits journalism lecturer says while many journalists brave conflict zones to get to the heart of a story - equal importance needs to be placed on their safety in these environments.
Mathatha Tsedu, who is also a member of the Committee to Protect Journalists, says the capture of photojournalist Shiraaz Mohamed points to the risks many reporters go to - to share the truth.
Mohamed was kidnapped by unknown gunmen in Syria last week while documenting humanitarian relief efforts in the war-torn country.
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The expert says a journalist's safety must also come first when on assignment.
"In the situation where Shiraaz found himself - he is a photojournalist and he is committed to showing the world what is happening in Syria. He knows it is dangerous. When you have journalists at the forefront of any war - you at least know that you are getting a story from people whose commitment is to tell it as they see it," he said.
The committee is calling for Shiraaz's immediate release.
Meanwhile, the Lenasia South community in Gauteng's held a night vigil for Mohamed to pray for his safety and release.