disappeared from the files of the competent authorities. Dr. Daniel Lavalie, the doctor responsible for examining the Applicant, confirms that the original medical report indicated a third-degree vaginal prolapse secondary to sexual assault, crucial evidence that could not be recovered due to the failure of the hospital authorities. 64. The inability to access these documents prevents the Applicant from gathering the necessary evidence to substantiate her complaint before national courts, compromising her chances of obtaining justice. The State of Sierra Leone’s failure to preserve and provide evidence demonstrates a serious breach of its duty of due diligence, amounting to a direct violation of the applicant’s right to an effective remedy. 65. In addition, the absence of an effective police investigation reinforces the State’s responsibility. In the case of Norbert Zongo and Others v. Burkina Faso (No. 013/2611), the African Court ruled that the State’s failure to adequately investigate the murder of journalist Norbert Zongo amounted to a violation of the rights to freedom of speech and effective judicial protection. 66. The Court investigation concluded that the absence the State not only by of a diligent and perpetuated impunity, impartial but also discouraged other journalists from fully exercising their freedom of speech, creating an environment of fear and self-censorship. 67. Additionally, in the case of Monim Elgak, Osman Hummeida and Amir Suliman v. Sudan (Communication no. 379/09), the African Commission emphasized that the absence of a proper investigation by the State in response to allegations of torture and arbitrary detention constitutes a violation of the rights protected by the African Charter. The Commission stressed that States have an obligation to promptly and 17 GP impartially