Two French journalists detained in Togo since late July have now been formally charged with making "false declarations", despite reportedly holding all the correct documentation to work in the country, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Gaël Mocaër and Sebastian Perez Pezzani were arrested on 27 July while filming a documentary for France Télévisions in Kara, northern Togo, prompting concern from press freedom groups and their families, who have called for their immediate release. The case adds to growing scrutiny of Togo's treatment of foreign media, with some suggesting the men may be held as leverage in dealings with France, though authorities have not confirmed this.

The pair are being held in pre-trial detention near the capital, Lomé, with RSF saying Pezzani requires urgent medical attention after more than 20 days in custody. Their production company, Tony Comiti Productions, insists both men were fully compliant with administrative regulations and had no political agenda. A Togolese fixer, Fred Vedomey, has also been detained, and some reports have speculatively linked the case to exiled Togolese journalist Ferdinand Ayité, though this has not been confirmed by either government. Togo ranks 97th out of 180 countries on RSF's press freedom index and has previously suspended French broadcasters France 24 and RFI and expelled another French journalist.