Facebook temporarily blocked posts from In-Depth Solomons, an independent news outlet in the Solomon Islands, after incorrectly labeling its content as spam. Over 80 posts, including stories and photos, were hidden by the platform, which also prohibited sharing links from the outlet’s website, indepthsolomons.com.sb, citing violations of community standards.
The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), of which In-Depth Solomons is a member, suggested that critics opposing independent media may have coordinated a campaign to silence the outlet. Editor Ofani Eremae stated, “We firmly believe we have been targeted for the journalism we are doing here in the Solomon Islands.”
In-Depth Solomons has faced criticism from government supporters and Chinese allies, especially after a joint exposé with OCCRP on former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s unexplained wealth. OCCRP also revealed that a major Solomon Islands newspaper received funds from the Chinese embassy for favorable coverage.
Facebook’s parent company, Meta, indicated that further investigation is needed. Eremae emphasised the importance of independent journalism, despite challenges, saying, “We think people or organizations who do not want to see independent reporting in this country may be behind this.”
