‘I want to give people a voice’

As a follower, I am constantly inspired by the courage and determination of journalists like Sue Mitchell. Her life’s work is a testament to the power of investigative journalism in exposing injustice and holding those responsible accountable.

The Willpower Detectives is on Radio 4 on Monday and Tuesday at 1.45pm. Add it to your collection

In the remote regions of northern Iraq, a place where a person could purchase an AK-47 for $700, journalist Sue Mitchell found herself face to face with the elusive people smuggler she’d been chasing for months and over two continents. Despite the potential danger posed by this seemingly psychopathic individual, Mitchell did not show fear.

Mitchell shared that he becomes highly motivated when faced with instances of injustice or misconduct. He’s deeply passionate about empowering individuals, ensuring those responsible are held accountable for their actions. This sense of purpose gives him the courage to act, not for himself, but on behalf of others.

Accompanied by her colleague Rob Lawrie, an aid worker and ex-soldier, Mitchell faced off against Scorpion, whose true identity is Barzan Majeed, in the exhilarating finale of their BBC podcast titled “To Catch a Scorpion“.

Initially, he acknowledged his actions and arrogantly stated that the Belgian court which found him guilty had no power over him, and he was immune in Iraq. However, it appeared that this was true. Suddenly, the Iraqi authorities apprehended him for human trafficking. Since May, the once seemingly invincible Majeed has been incarcerated, and he is set to face trial next year.

This remarkable event was widely reported in news outlets worldwide, causing ripples among other human trafficking networks, and making “To Catch a Scorpion” a shining example of investigative journalism. Mitchell’s name became synonymous with captivating, critical reporting.

According to Winifred Robinson, presenter of “You and Yours,” Sue is an exceptional journalist who is driven, diligent, and tenacious. Unlike many journalists today who primarily work at a desk making phone calls, Sue is constantly out in the field, wearing down her shoes by knocking on doors, talking to people, and asking them about their experiences. While some journalists abandon this style of reporting, Sue has never let her passion wane.

It’s likely that Robinson would be aware of it, given their longstanding collaboration: they have been creating documentaries for over two decades now. From “The Health Protectors” focusing on the Health Protection Agency, to “The Boy in the Woods” concerning the murder case of Rikki Neave, and the acclaimed “To Catch a Scorpion”, either Robinson has been the producer for Mitchell’s works or more recently, Mitchell has been working under Robinson’s production.

I’ve often had reservations about receiving too much recognition for work primarily done by Sue in journalism. It seems common among presenters to claim accolades that rightfully belong to others. However, Sue is exceptional because her involvement in the work has become so deeply personal that it becomes impossible for anyone else to tell these stories. When these programs air, we receive a wave of applause and affection from the audience.

Mitchell’s recent investigation might not be on the global level as “To Catch a Scorpion,” but it is equally captivating and more personally relevant: she has spent months delving into power of attorney agreements – legal documents that grant someone else control over your finances and decision-making – and their potential misuse.

The timing couldn’t be more fitting: over eight million of these types of requests are processed annually by the Office of the Public Guardian in England and Wales, an organization dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who can no longer make decisions for themselves due to incapacity. As our population ages, the need for such services is on the rise – last fiscal year saw a record-breaking 1.37 million new requests compared to just 690,000 in the previous fiscal year (2020-21).

The UK’s older population tends to be its wealthiest group. These individuals have amassed wealth throughout their lives, often from the rising value of their homes. As they grow older, they may require assistance with their affairs. If someone is wealthy but not in good health and lacks immediate family, they become more susceptible. It’s quite likely that you know someone or even find yourself in such a situation.

The Labour MP Fabian Hamilton told the House of Commons recently that misuse of power of attorney is widespread. “Cases from up and down the country are becoming more evident every day. I believe it is time we act to prevent such appalling injustice.”

As a cinephile, my curiosity was sparked by a whisper from neighbors about a woman who had mysteriously vanished for months. They unwittingly became my initial allies in my newest project, “The Willpower Detectives,” assisting me in weaving together a tapestry of names, numbers, sightings, and suspicions. Along the way, I enlisted more community sleuths to help unravel this intricate puzzle. As I probed questions and traversed streets and towns, a striking pattern emerged, casting light on the power and sway of one influential group.

Injustice fires me up and makes me brave

This pattern might be interpreted as a hint at a larger, grim portrayal of our collective disregard for the elderly and vulnerable in society – an oversight, neglect, and marginalization that is all too common. After reading “The Willpower Detectives“, one could feel pessimistic or even hopeless. However, Mitchell offers a different perspective.

I witness a beautiful tapestry of friendship, neighborhood camaraderie, and communal care, with individuals ensuring the well-being of those less fortunate within their circles. Neighbors watch over the elderly lady next door while pals keep tabs on each other. Indeed, it’s heartening to see so many genuinely good people. Granted, there are some malicious actors lurking about, but the majority of us have kindness at our core. – Mitchell’s perspective

When I tell Mitchell that she’s one of those exceptional individuals – someone who has assisted a family member through “The Willpower Detectives” was labeled as “a superhero” by them – she modestly declines the praise. She is also eager to acknowledge others, stating that without their help, she claims she couldn’t accomplish what she does.

“There’s the brilliant Joel Moors, whose day job is an assistant editor on the Today programme, and who helps oversee the production; and Tom Brignell, the best sound designer imaginable, who really captures the feel and sense of place. Without them, it’d be a lonely position to be in.”

The underlying message from the tale of the Willpower Detectives and Sue Mitchell’s noble deeds appears to emphasize community involvement. While this is certainly true, it doesn’t fully capture the enigma that is Sue Mitchell herself. Towards the end of our conversation, I inquire about her leisure activities, to which she responds, “I enjoy swimming and coaching as well. It’s something I’ve always loved. Interestingly enough, I was a lifeguard when I was younger.” One can’t help but wonder if she ever saved someone during those days.

“Mostly youngsters who jumped in despite not being able to swim.”

And with that admission, Mitchell suddenly makes sense. She jumps right in and saves people.

2024-12-04 00:34

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