In a press statement, TVOne News Editor Paul Patrick said “to reinforce how seriously we view this, we have taken the unusual step of having journalist, Barbara Dreaver swear an affidavit.
“There is ongoing debate in the Samoan media about the story TVNZ journalist, Barbara Dreaver researched and aired stating guns and drugs were being smuggled into Samoa. While discussion is healthy, repeated claims that the story was fabricated are not.
“TVNZ is taking this development very seriously as we believe the allegations strike directly at TVNZ’s news credibility and Barbara Dreaver’s reputation.
“TVNZ continues to stand by the accuracy of the story and to reinforce how seriously we view this, we have taken the unusual step of having Barbara Dreaver swear an affidavit,” Patrick said.
The Attorney General’s Office in Apia is awaiting advice from the law firm of Chapman Tripps in Auckland for any legal action in New Zealand regarding the story which has been seen as having damaged Samoa’s image as a safe travel destination.
