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Somalia’s press freedom groups call for accountability and protection during meeting with diplomatic community

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Press freedom organizations convened today in Mogadishu with members of the international diplomatic community to raise urgent concerns about the worsening state of freedom of expression in Somalia. | PHOTO/Courtesy/SJS.
Press freedom organizations convened today in Mogadishu with members of the international diplomatic community to raise urgent concerns about the worsening state of freedom of expression in Somalia. | PHOTO/ SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia, 20 May 2025 – Press freedom organizations convened today in Mogadishu with members of the international diplomatic community to raise urgent concerns about the worsening state of freedom of expression in Somalia.

The meeting brought together press freedom advocates, representatives from International Media Support (IMS), officials from the Ministry of Information who have been targeting journalists including SJS, and members of the diplomatic community.

Participants voiced alarm over the increasing repression targeting Somali journalists, particularly those based in Mogadishu, and the broader erosion of press freedom across the country.

The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) expressed grave concern over the escalating attacks on journalists, SJS members, and independent media houses. These attacks have intensified following public threats issued by government officials from the police and the the Ministry of Information.

“Since the statement by the Minister of Information Daud Aweis Jama and the Mogadishu Police Commissioner, Moalim Mahdi on 6 March 2025, attacks on journalists have significantly increased. Press freedom is dying in Somalia. We are deeply concerned that the Somali government—specifically the Ministry of Information, police forces, and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA)—is deliberately targeting journalists for their independent reporting,” said Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, during the meeting.

Reporting on security issues including threats posed by Al-Shabaab terror group, government corruption and human rights abuses remain a red line for journalists in Somalia, particularly in Mogadishu.

The 6 March statement by Minister Daud Aweis and Mogadishu Police Commissioner Mahdi Omar Muumin (known as Moalim Mahdi who is also an ex-defector of Al-Shabaab), which openly threatened “severe punishment” media outlets against publishing any reporting related to security has triggered a new wave of suppression.

Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, raised concerns about the attacks on journalists during the meeting. | PHOTO/ SJS.
Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, raised concerns about the attacks on journalists during the meeting. | PHOTO/ SJS.

Participants also highlighted the growing intimidation of journalists working for state media in Mogadishu, many of whom have faced threats, suspensions, and dismissals for critical reporting or expressing independent views.

Serious concern was raised regarding threats against women journalists, including threats of sexual violence and other security risks, which have become increasingly common.

The diplomatic community was urged to stand in support of press freedom advocacy and to take meaningful steps to ensure the safety and protection of Somali journalists.

Between 1 January and 30 April 2025, a total of 46 journalists were arrested or detained across Somalia, according to SJS documentation. Journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe was killed in Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu on 18 March. Additionally, two journalists were kidnapped and have since disappeared in Lower Shabelle, Southwest State. Both government forces and Al-Shabaab have contributed to an increasingly hostile environment for the press, marked by physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, killings, and online censorship.

Officials from the Ministry of Information, whose leaders have openly targeted journalists, were also in attendance. | PHOTO/SJS.
Officials from the Ministry of Information, whose leaders have openly targeted journalists, were also in attendance. | PHOTO/SJS.

State security forces and police—many of whom are former Al-Shabaab defectors—were behind most of the raids, arrests, and intimidation incidents. NISA continued its practice of unlawful detentions and harassment, particularly in Mogadishu. Of the 46 arrests so far, 41 occurred in Mogadishu alone, underscoring how Mogadishu remains a dangerous place for journalists.

Reflecting today’s engagement, the SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, thanked the diplomatic community for their efforts and reiterated a strong call for media freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, peacebuilding, and efforts to counter violent extremism.

“I take this opportunity to remind Somalia’s international partners that there can be no democratic Somalia unless we have a strong and independent media, and the international community must act to defend free media. Accountability is key to ending this cycle of violence subjected to the journalist community in Somalia including SJS members. Let us make no mistake: those who target journalists must be held accountable, no matter how powerful they are or whether they command armed groups,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

Climate, Conflict, and the Disappearing World: SJS participates in Medico Foundation symposium

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SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin (right) speaks during a panel discussion as part of the the 2025 Symposium organized by Medico International Foundation in Frankfurt, Germany. | PHOTO/ Medico International team.
SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin (right) speaks during a panel discussion as part of the the 2025 Symposium organized by Medico International Foundation in Frankfurt, Germany. | PHOTO/ Medico International team.

MOGADISHU, Somalia  14 May 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) congratulates the successful completion of the 2025 Symposium organized by Medico International Foundation. We are honored to have participated in the symposium’s interactive panel discussion held in Frankfurt, Germany, from 8–9 May 2025.

The symposium, titled “About the Disappearance of a World“, focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses.

SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Mumin participated as a panelist, emphasizing that the climate crisis is not just an environmental concern, but also a manifestation of historical and ongoing global power imbalances. He illustrated this with the example of the 2021 floods in Germany that claimed over 180 lives and triggered billions in recovery aid, compared to the 2022 drought in Somalia which killed 43,000 people—mostly children—with far less international attention.

“Yet climate-linked migration is often framed as a security threat in Europe and beyond, justifying walls, detention, and militarization, rather than addressing the root causes,” said Mr. Mumin.

Somalia remains one of the countries most severely affected by the climate crisis, with millions forced into displacement after losing their livelihoods. Floods and recurrent droughts continue to claim lives—mostly among vulnerable groups such as women and children.

Abdalle Mumin presentation slide illustrating the example of the 2021 floods in Germany compared to the 2022 drought in Somalia. | PHOTO/SJS.
Abdalle Mumin presentation slide illustrating the example of the 2021 floods in Germany compared to the 2022 drought in Somalia.

Since 2022, SJS has partnered with Medico International to train more than 60 local journalists—including those from communities directly affected by floods in southern and central Somalia—to report on climate change and raise awareness around climate justice.

Journalists, including those within the SJS network, have also been victimized by recurrent droughts and floods, often compounded by ongoing conflicts.

This SJS-Medico International initiative not only engaged journalists and media professionals but also brought together local authorities, community leaders, and human rights defenders to seek solutions to this persistent crisis.

“Journalists play a critical role in shaping climate policy, raising awareness among local communities—including displaced persons—and assisting them in developing mitigation and adaptation strategies,” added Mr. Mumin. “When empowered, the media’s influence on public opinion is substantial, and how climate issues are reported and understood directly impacts the discourse and the solutions provided to affected communities.”

The symposium, titled "About the Disappearance of a World", focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses. | PHOTO/ Medico International team.
The symposium, titled “About the Disappearance of a World”, focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses. | PHOTO/ Medico International team.

At the Frankfurt symposium, discussions also highlighted the massive budget cuts in climate action and the increasing securitization of climate-induced migration.

However, one powerful outcome was a renewed call for global solidarity and a reminder that hope must not be lost. Journalists were recognized for their role in ensuring that the world does not silently disappear.

“I believe our greatest task is to ask ourselves how we can be better humans—to each other, to our communities, to those forced to flee, and to our disappearing world,” Mr. Mumin added “In a time where rising seas erase coastlines, where families are displaced by conflict and climate, and where walls are built faster than bridges—it’s easy to feel hopeless. But journalists can, and must, carry this responsibility effectively.”

The final message concluded with Mr. Mumin reciting a verse from a song by the renowned Somali singer, the late Luul Jeylani, who more than three decades ago poignantly connected themes of love, sustenance, and human appreciation. She sang:

‘A man who plants sorghum in a pit, will reap it when the rains fall, he will not lose it.

It is only right to appreciate each other. The favor you showed me, I’ve cherished with.

Is it fair for me to cut ties with you?’

The symposium, titled "About the Disappearance of a World", focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses. | PHOTO/ Medico International team.
The symposium, titled “About the Disappearance of a World”, focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses. | PHOTO/ Medico International team.

SJS extends its sincere gratitude to Medico International for organizing this impactful symposium. We also deeply appreciate the warm welcome and rich exchanges with fellow journalists, academics, NGO leaders, and solidarity groups during the event in Frankfurt.

Mogadishu journalists’ residence raided, one arrested after district official calls for attacks with machetes and sticks

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On 5 May 2025, armed agents from the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) raided a residential house and media studio belonging to journalists Bashir Ali Shire (left) and Mohamed Omar Baakaay (right) in the Shibis district of Mogadishu.| PHOTO/ SJS /courtesy.
Journalist Bashir Ali Shire (left) and journalist Mohamed Omar Baakaay (right).

MOGADISHU, Somalia 6 May, 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) strongly condemns the incitement to violence made this week by the Karaan District Commissioner, who called for attacks with “machetes and sticks” against a critical journalist.  This dangerous rhetoric comes amid a rising wave of threats and violence targeting journalists in Mogadishu.

Early Monday morning, around 1:30 a.m. on 5 May 2025, armed agents from the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) raided a residential house and media studio belonging to journalists Bashir Ali Shire and Mohamed Omar Baakaay in the Shibis district of Mogadishu.

The armed men, blindfolded and arrested journalist Bashir Ali Shire, who reports for MM Somali TV, and confiscated an external hard drive, CCTV storage equipment, and his phone from the residence.

Journalist Mohamed Omar Baakaay was not present during the raid, but the agents also arrested his brother, Anas Omar Mohamud. According to Bashir, the armed men threatened and intimidated him with pistols and took them to a secluded street corner in Shibis district, where they began beating Anas with the pistols and kicking him while interrogating him about his brother Mohamed’s whereabouts.

At dawn, the two were taken to the Shibis Police Station. They were later released around midday but were told to leave behind contact details in case they are needed again. Journalist Mohamed Omar Baakaay, who continues to publish on his Facebook page, has stated that he cannot return home due to fear of further violence. His passport, ID card, and mobile phone were among the items seized during the raid.

This incident occurred just a day after the Kaaraan District Commissioner, Farah Adani — an official appointed by the Mogadishu Mayor — publicly called for violence against journalist Baakaay.

On 4 May statement broadcast on multiple platforms, Commissioner Adani urged government supporters to “take machetes and sticks,” declaring they were authorized to “break the journalist’s bones and enter his house.” He went further to label the journalist a “drug addict and worse than the terrorists” and challenged his supporters to “bring him in handcuffs.”

On 3 May, journalist Baakaay published a video report on Facebook and YouTube claiming that “vulnerable women were being exploited for media publicity” during voter registration campaigns in Mogadishu, and that Mogadishu district commissioners “were under pressure to forcibly register people for disputed electoral purposes” in Mogadishu.

Baakaay has 260,000 followers across his Facebook page and 62,000 on YouTube which he uses for daily reporting.

Following this inciteful speech, threatening messages and images of critical journalists began circulating on social media, with some explicitly mentioning potential violence. SJS received a report from one journalist who was verbally threatened on the street with a warning of a ‘machete attack’ if he continued to publish criticism of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

While attacks on critical journalists have escalated in the past four months, SJS is particularly alarmed by the dangerous rhetoric of Karaan District Commissioner Farah Adani — a known political ally of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud— who reportedly commanded a defected police unit in Yaaqshiid during the Mogadishu violence in April 2021.

SJS expresses its deep concern on this new call to violence against journalists and we urgently call on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Mayor of Mogadishu, Mohamed Ahmed Amiir, to immediately suspend Commissioner Farah Adani, and to launch an independent investigation into his threats and the raid of journalist Mohamed Omar Baakaay’s residence.  Such inflammatory actions not only endanger journalist journalist Baakaay but have also escalated the risk to other journalists in Mogadishu who report critically on the government.

“We condemn the raid on the journalists’ residence in Mogadishu on Monday, as we strongly denounce the dangerous call for violence made by the Kaaraan District Commissioner Farah Adani against journalist Mohamed Omar Baakaay. We particularly call for a full and independent investigation into the armed officers and individuals in civilian clothes who were involved in the raid,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“While SJS has documented a disturbing rise in threats, intimidation, and physical attacks against journalists in Mogadishu in recent months, this specific call to violence by a government official in Mogadishu is already having a chilling effect on the work of independent journalists and poses a serious threat to freedom of expression in Somalia. The safety of journalists must be guaranteed, and officials inciting violence against the press, including Farah Adani must be held accountable to prevent further deterioration of press freedom and democratic discourse,” Mr. Mumin adds.

World Press Freedom Day 2025: Alarming Escalation: Attacks on Journalists and Media in Somalia and Somaliland

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COVER PAGE: SJS Report on World Press Freedom Day 2025.

MOGADISHU, Sonalia 3 May, 2025 –  From January to April 2025, Somalia and Somaliland saw a sharp rise in attacks against journalists and media outlets. The safety of journalists remains a significant concern, especially in Mogadishu, which has become one of the most dangerous areas in the country.

Key Trends ( January – April 2025: )
Key Trends ( January – April 2025: )

On 18 March 2025, journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe was killed in an Al-Shabaab bombing targeting the Somali president’s convoy near the presidential palace—one of the supposedly safest zones in Mogadishu. Impunity continues as the Somali government fails to investigate such attacks and bring those responsible to justice, including for the killings of civilians and journalists.

Chart: Violations Against Media Freedom in Somalia and Somaliland (Jan - Apr 2025).
Chart: Violations Against Media Freedom in Somalia and Somaliland (Jan – Apr 2025).

Between 1 January to 30 April, In total, 46 journalists were arrested or detained during this period, and two journalists were kidnapped and disappeared in Lower Shabelle, Southwest State. Southwest State also imposed restrictions on three local radio stations during Ramadan, while Somaliland closed Universal TV, and Mogadishu police raided Radio Risaala. More than 30 journalists had their equipment confiscated, and 10 others faced physical violence and intimidation.

Female journalists represented 10.5% of those affected, while 89.5% were male.

Both government forces and Al-Shabaab contributed to an increasingly hostile environment for media workers, with offline attacks, including arbitrary arrests and killings, complemented by online censorship.

Somalia’s State Security Forces and Police, many of whom are former Al-Shabaab defectors, were behind most raids, arrests, and intimidations of journalists. The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) continued unlawful detentions and harassment, particularly in Mogadishu. A surge in arrests—41 in Mogadishu alone—signals a growing threat to media freedom in the capital.

Government officials, including those from the Ministry of Information and Ministry of Internal Security, openly targeted journalists critical of the government or reporting on Al-Shabaab attacks or military withdrawals. This crackdown prompted many journalists to self-censor or flee the country.

Gender Breakdown Of Journalists Affected by Physical Threats, Arrests (Jan-Apr2025)
Gender Breakdown Of Journalists Affected by Physical Threats, Arrests (Jan-Apr2025)

Facebook has become a key platform for journalists in Somalia, yet Meta increasingly
removed content or restricted pages, often in response to reports critical of the government or sensitive security issues. At least seven journalists and media outlets were affected by these actions during the period of this report.

Female journalists faced both physical at- tacks and online censorship, with six
incidents specifically targeted with women reporters.

The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) urges immediate action at both national and
international levels to protect journalists, hold perpetrators accountable, and safeguard media freedom against the ongoing repression.

 

READ THE FULL REPORT HERE

SJS and RFK Human Rights condemn the ban on reporting and attacks on journalists in Somalia

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A group of Somali journalists were brought to Hamar Jajab police station after they were arrested on the aftermath of Mogadishu bombing on 18 March 2025. | PHOTO:Courtesy: SJS.
A group of Somali journalists were brought to Hamar Jajab police station after they were arrested on the aftermath of Mogadishu bombing on 18 March 2025. | PHOTO:Courtesy: SJS.

MOGADISHU/WASHINGTON DC, 25 April, 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and RFK Human Rights strongly denounce the trend of attacks on journalists amidst the worsening security environment in Somalia. Somali authorities must uphold their legal obligations to guarantee freedom of expression for journalists and all Somali citizens.

In recent months, freedom of the press in Somalia has  significantly deteriorated, while security challenges continue to rise. The Al-Shabaab militant group has recently escalated its campaign on Mogadishu and surrounding areas, launching raids and planting bombs in key civilian areas. In response, the authorities announced a ban on any reporting concerning the security situation in Mogadishu, which has left a large information gap for Somali citizens.

This illegal ban on reportage on the security situation has been used as a pretext to suppress press freedom in Somalia. Earlier this month, Somali Police arrested Feisal Omar (Reuters) for reporting on a protest by the Somali Bantu minority community, and the directors of a local outlet, Shabelle Media, Abukar Sheik Mohamud and Mahmud Abdinasir Soofeeysane, for hosting an interview on insecurity in Mogadishu.

This recent trend began in February 2025 after journalists reported on the United States embassy’s security alert regarding imminent attacks in Mogadishu. The local police commissioner in Mogadishu threatened to detain “anyone who reports on security issues in a hot and dark cell with no lights.” On March 18, after an Al-Shabaab bombing targeting the Somali President’s convoy outside the presidential palace, which sadly claimed the life of journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe, Somali police arrested nineteen journalists from both local and international outlets who were on the scene to report the news. In addition, the police raided and shut down the offices of Risaala Media Corporation without a warrant after Risaala Media’s reporting on the bombing. Five other journalists were arrested and taken to the local police station for interrogation before being released with a warning not to report on security issues.

On March 25, journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow was forcibly disappeared by armed officers linked to the regional police commissioner after reporting on an Al-Shabaab attack in the town of Afgooye, outside of Mogadishu. Mr. Mayow was summoned by the police commissioner after he published a video showing the aftermath of the mortar attack. Although local journalists went to the Afgooye police station to inquire about his whereabouts, the station informed them that they did not have him in custody. SJS confirms that Mr. Mayow was held in an undisclosed location until March 28, when he was driven to Mogadishu and thrown out of the car. The Somali police, who were responsible for his abduction, never issued any statement regarding his kidnapping or release.

Even journalists who were reporting on issues unrelated to the security situation have been caught up in the net of repression. On March 15, after journalist Bahjo Abdullahi Salad reported on leftover food and waste being dumped in a neighborhood in Mogadishu, agents from the National Intelligence and Security Agency raided her home, arrested her, and interrogated her for four hours. Her report was seen as a criticism of the Prime Minister, who had attended an event nearby that contributed to the dumping, and she was only freed after other journalists protested her detention.

“We are deeply alarmed by the escalating attacks on journalists across Somalia and the worsening security situation facing the media. The recent attacks on journalists in Mogadishu by Somalia’s police and national intelligence (NISA) and the death of journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe in an Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu, which also claimed the lives of innocent civilians, is a tragic reminder of the dangers journalists face while informing the public,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin. “Somali authorities must end this culture of silencing critical voices and ensure journalists can work without fear of violence, arrest, or intimidation.”

“The ban on reportage around security issues is not a permissible limitation to the right to freedom of speech under human rights law,” said Ikechukwu Uzoma, senior staff attorney at RFK Human Rights. “Somali authorities must begin to see a free press as a critical part of the advancement of peace and security in the country—journalism is not a crime,” he added.

Global Recognition: SJS SG Abdalle Mumin among finalists for 2025 Allard Prize for International Integrity

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SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has been named among this year’s distinguished 2025 finalists. | FILE PHOTO/ SJS.
SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has been named among this year’s distinguished 2025 finalists. | FILE PHOTO/ SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia, 17 April 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) proudly welcomes the announcement of the finalists for the 2025 Allard Prize for International Integrity—one of the world’s most prestigious honors recognizing exceptional courage in the fight against corruption and the defense of human rights.

SJS is deeply honored that our Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has been named among this year’s distinguished 2025 finalists. [Read finalists here]

Beyond his role at SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin has relentlessly dedicated his life to defending press freedom, promoting transparency, and standing up for human rights in Somalia—often at grave personal risk. He has faced imprisonment, torture, threats, and endless persecution simply for speaking truth to power.

“Abdalle Mumin was imprisoned because of his unwavering commitment to defending human rights and press freedom in Somalia. His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” said Mohamed Ibrahim, President of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). “Abdalle’s courage fuels a new generation of truth-tellers and justice seekers. His recognition not only honors his sacrifice but also reinforces SJS’s commitment to our critical mission—pursuing press freedom, defending journalists, and promoting human rights with even greater determination and resilience.”

His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” – Mohamed Ibrahim, SJS President.

“Let us be absolutely clear: If Abdalle Mumin wins this award, it will be a resounding recognition of his bravery, unwavering dedication, and personal sacrifice in defense of human rights, government accountability, and media freedom. It will undoubtedly inspire thousands of journalists and human rights defenders across Somalia and beyond,” adds Mr. Ibrahim. “Moreover, it will send an unmistakable message to those who seek to silence truth and oppress freedom—that the world is watching, and it stands firmly with those who dare to speak out.”

The entire SJS network of journalists and community of defenders stand proudly beside our Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, and reaffirms our unwavering commitment to advancing press freedom, protecting journalists, and promoting human rights.  We also extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Abdalle on this remarkable recognition.

The Allard Prize, named after Peter A. Allard, a Canadian lawyer and renowned human rights champion, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and courage in combating corruption and defending human rights.

The Allard Prize Award Ceremony will be held on June 17, 2025, at Tribeca Rooftop in New York City, U.S, where the winner will receive a $100,000 CAD prize.

Somali police arrest journalists, disperse women protesting against sexual violence

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Somali police in Mogadishu briefly arrested five journalists covering a women's protest in Mogadishu. The journalists (from top left) are Abdirazak Haji Sidow Nor (cameraman for Himilo TV), Abdullahi Abdukadir Ahmed (reporter for Himilo TV), Abdirizak Abdullahi Adan (reporter for Radio Mustaqbal), Abdirahman Barre Hussein (cameraman for Radio Mustaqbal), and Anisa Abdiaziz Hussein (reporter for Himilo TV). | PHOTO/ Combined/ SJS.
Somali police in Mogadishu briefly arrested five journalists covering a women's protest in Mogadishu. The journalists (from top left) are Abdirazak Haji Sidow Nor (cameraman for Himilo TV), Abdullahi Abdukadir Ahmed (reporter for Himilo TV), Abdirizak Abdullahi Adan (reporter for Radio Mustaqbal), Abdirahman Barre Hussein (cameraman for Radio Mustaqbal), and Anisa Abdiaziz Hussein (reporter for Himilo TV). | PHOTO/ Combined/ SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia 29 March 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) strongly condemns the unlawful arrest of five journalists in Mogadishu and the confiscation of their equipment on Friday, 28 March, as they were covering a women’s protest demanding accountability for two Somali girls who are victims of sexual violence.

At around 2:30 PM local time, Mogadishu police attacked five local journalists who were reporting on a group of women protesting in Mogadishu streets against the reported gang rape of a young Somali woman in Nairobi, Kenya and the alleged forced marriage of an underage girl to an older man in Puntland.

These two incidents have sparked public outrage across Somalia in recent days, highlighting the brutal violence that women and girls continue to face.

A police officer from Hodan district, identified as Amin Abukar ‘Muniish,’ along with his officers, arrived as the women protestors—who were chanting “We want justice, and we do not consent to be raped.”—marched from KM4 towards Maka al-Mukarama on Friday. The police dispersed the protestors who were mainly young women and then turned their attention to the journalists, ordering them to stop recording interviews with the protest organizers.

As a result, four journalists—Abdirazak Haji Sidow Nor (cameraman for Himilo TV), Abdullahi Abdukadir Ahmed (reporter for Himilo TV), Abdirizak Abdullahi Adan (reporter for Radio Mustaqbal), and Abdirahman Barre Hussein (cameraman for Radio Mustaqbal)—were arrested and taken to the Hodan district police station. Later, the police also detained female journalist Anisa Abdiaziz Hussein, who was reporting for Himilo TV from the protest.

Four of the journalists interviewed by SJS stated that upon arrival at the police station, their camera equipment was confiscated, and their interviews were deleted. The male journalists were locked in a narrow cell with other detainees, while Anisa was held separately from her male colleagues. The police informed them that they would be released only on the condition that they refrain from covering protests in the future.

Police officers were seen arriving before dispersing women protesters and arresting journalists during Friday's women's protest in Mogadishu. | PHOTO/SJS/Courtesy.
Police officers were seen arriving before dispersing women protesters and arresting journalists during Friday’s women’s protest in Mogadishu. | PHOTO /Mohamed Bulbul.

Eventually, all five journalists were released, and their equipment was returned.

SJS welcomes the release of the five journalists, however, SJS strongly condemns this blatant violation of press freedom of intimidating journalists, confiscating their equipment and deletion of the material from the protest, which amounts of full censorship of independent media reporting and suppression of peaceful protests. We call for the respect for media freedom and the right to protest. The officers responsible for these actions must be held accountable.

Somali women protestors—who were chanting “We want justice, and we do not consent to be raped.”—marched from KM4 towards Maka al-Mukarama on Friday. The police dispersed the protestors who were mainly young women and then turned their attention to the journalists. | PHOTO/ Himilo TV.
Somali women protestors—who were chanting “We want justice, and we do not consent to be raped.”—marched from KM4 towards Maka al-Mukarama on Friday. The police dispersed the protestors who were mainly young women and then turned their attention to the journalists. | PHOTO/ Himilo Somali TV.

“When Somalia’s Mogadishu police attack journalists and deny women the right to protest against rampant sexual violence, it only proves that the Somali government stands with perpetrators rather than victims. This repression sends a clear message that justice for Somali women who are victims of sexual violence remains out of reach,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“We condemn the unlawful arrest of the five journalists yesterday in Mogadishu, and the violent suppression of women protesting against sexual violence. We urge the Mogadishu authorities to return to the law and order, respect what the Somali constitution says, and uphold press freedom and protect the rights of women instead of siding with violent abusers,” Mr. Mumin adds.

Intensified Crackdown on Journalists: Somali police raid home of SJS Secretary of Information Mohamed Bulbul in Mogadishu

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Mohamed Bulbul | Photo:Screenshot from video interview: Facebook
Mohamed Bulbul | Photo:Screenshot from video interview: Facebook

MOGADISHU, Somalia 27 March, 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is extremely concerned about the police raid on the residence of SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, on Wednesday, 26 March.

At approximately 8:40 PM local time, around 10 armed police officers arrived at Bulbul’s residence, questioning family members about his whereabouts. Bulbul was not at home, but the armed men harassed his family and remained outside for several hours. Later that night, a known police informant was seen near the residence.

On 8 March, Mohamed Bulbul published a four-part interview with a former inmate and victim of the Somalia National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA)’s notorious underground prison on his Facebook page, which has 206,000 followers.  In the interview, the victim described torture and sexual violence against prisoners in NISA detention facility known as Godka Jila’ow where government critics and journalists are held.

Shortly after the interview was published, Bulbul received calls from police and NISA officers demanding its removal, which he refused.

Additionally, Bulbul reported on Mogadishu residents’ concerns over Al-Shabaab presence near the capital, warning of potential threats to civilian safety and calling for government action.

According to Bulbul, his reporting came after statement from the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu issued a security alert on 4 March 4, stating: “The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu is tracking credible information related to potential imminent attacks against multiple locations in Somalia, including Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. All movements of U.S. Embassy Mogadishu personnel have been canceled until further notice.” Also, the U.S. Embassy in Kenya had issued a statement on 27 February, announcing: “The U.S. Government has made the decision to not use Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu for official U.S. Embassy Mogadishu travelers until further notice. We will send updates as appropriate.”

These U.S. statements were widely covered by local journalists in Somalia, including Bulbul. Following this, several airlines have announced the suspension of their direct flights to Mogadishu.

On Monday, 24 March, Mogadishu Police Commander Mahdi Omar Mumin (known as Moalim Mahdi) called Mohamed Bulbul, requesting a meeting and urging him to stop reporting on police and security failures in Mogadishu.

SJS strongly condemns the raid on Bulbul’s residence and the threats against him due to his continuous reporting on critical public interest issues. SJS stands firmly with Mohamed Bulbul and calls on the police and NISA to end the harassment and intimidation against him.

These new threats come at a time when SJS continues its support for local journalists. Just last week alone, journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe was killed in an Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu on Tuesday 18 March, and  24 journalists were arrested briefly by Somali police in Mogadishu while reporting on the Al-Shabaab attack on the Somali president’s convoy.

Radio Risaala was raided and shut down by the police for covering the attack on the president on the same day.

Since Monday this week, journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow, who comes from the marginalised community in Lower Shabelle, has been missing after being abducted in Afgooye, Lower Shabelle, by armed police officers affiliated with Mogadishu Police Commander Moalim Mahdi.

SJS urges the Somali authorities to respect press freedom and immediately cease targeting journalists for their reporting.

“We strongly condemn this outrageous raid and intimidation against SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul and his family. This is yet another blatant attack on press freedom and an attempt to silence critical journalism in Somalia,” said SJS President, Mohamed Ibrahim “We call for full accountability for those responsible for this raid, including the officers who carried it out and the officials who ordered it.”

“Somalia’s police and national intelligence must immediately cease their harassment of journalists, particularly Mohamed Bulbul, who not only dedicates his time to reporting the truth on the ground but has also devoted enormous efforts to advocating for press freedom and supporting fellow journalists. Instead of targeting journalists, the Somali police and NISA should focus on their actual duty—protecting citizens and ensuring security, not targeting journalists and suppressing the truth,” added Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim.

After surviving Al-Shabaab attack, journalist Ibrahim Mayow abducted by Somali police

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Somali journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow. | PHOTO/ Courtesy/Facebook.
Somali journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow. | PHOTO/ Courtesy/Facebook.

MOGADISHU, Somalia – 25 March, 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) expresses deep concern over the abduction of journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow, who was kidnapped in Afgooye, about 30km from Mogadishu, on Monday 24 March, while reporting from the town.

According to colleagues and family members, Mayow, a reporter for the Mogadishu-based Dalsan TV, was covering Monday’s Al-Shabaab attack on Afgooye when he was summoned by armed officers linked to Banadir Regional Police Commissioner Mahdi Omar Muumin (commonly known as Moalim Mahdi).

Shortly after, he disappeared, and his whereabouts remain unknown.

A local journalist in Afgooye told SJS that Mayow was called by Moalim Mahdi after Dalsan TV published a video showing the aftermath of the mortar attack, which struck residential areas in Afgooye—a key agricultural town in the Lower Shabelle region.

Moalim Mahdi, a former Al-Shabaab defector who was promoted to Mogadishu police chief, was reportedly in Afgooye at the time of Monday’s mortar attack.

When a group of local reporters visited Afgooye police station to inquire about Mayow, officers there denied having him in custody and claimed they had no knowledge of his arrest.

Dalsan TV later posted on Facebook: “The police forces in Afgooye district have arrested journalist Ibraahin Mayow, who works for Dalsan Media. The journalist, who was arrested in Afgooye district, has reportedly been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Mogadishu.”

A Dalsan TV journalist told SJS that they have not yet seen Mayow or confirmed his whereabouts.

This is not the first time Mayow has faced danger. On 14 March, 2025, he survived an Al-Shabaab attack in Awdheegle district, Lower Shabelle, while covering a military operation. The attack targeted a Somali National Army (SNA) Gorgor unit base in Awdheegle.  Though Mayow managed to escape, he lost his camera equipment in the chaos.

Journalists covering military operations and Al-Shabaab attacks in Somalia are frequently targeted. Just last week, 24 journalists were briefly arrested, and one radio station was shut down in Mogadishu after reporting on an Al-Shabaab bombing in the capital.

Sadly, the Somali media community lost journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe in the bombing.

SJS calls for the immediate and safe release of journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow and urges the Mogadishu police under Moalim Mahdi to immediately disclose his location. Kidnapping a journalist is illegal and a serious violation of press freedom and human rights.

The Somali government and its affiliated militias must respect press freedom and the safety of journalists. They should refrain from targeting journalists, as it is their duty to report the truth, including the attacks and violations committed by both sides of the conflict.

“The abduction of journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow is a grave violation of press freedom and an attack on the fundamental rights of journalists in Somalia.  We condemn these actions and we call for the immediate disclosure of his whereabouts and for his unconditional release,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“While Al-Shabaab targets civilians, including journalists, in its terror attacks, it is deeply saddening that the Somali government is also attacking journalists, raiding media stations, and kidnapping reporters, such as Ibrahim Mayow, from the field. This poses a grave threat to press freedom and the safety of those working to report the truth in Somalia,” Mumin adds.

In a new crackdown on free press, Somali police arrest 19 journalists reporting on Al-Shabaab attack on president’s convoy

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Journalists arrested on the aftermath of Mogadishu bombing on Tuesday 18 March 2025. | PHOTO/Courtesy/ SJS.
Journalists arrested on the aftermath of Mogadishu bombing on Tuesday 18 March 2025. | PHOTO/Courtesy/ SJS.

MOGADISHU, Somalia, 19 March 2025 –  The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is alarmed by the escalating crackdown on journalists covering security issues in Mogadishu, following a recent announcement by the Somali government banning coverage of Al-Shabaab threats in the capital.

On Tuesday, 18 March, the Somali police in Mogadishu briefly arrested 19 journalists from local and international media in the aftermath of an Al-Shabaab bombing attack that targeted President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy outside Villa Somalia, the presidential palace.

The attack resulted in multiple casualties, including journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe. The journalist’s body was laid to rest today, Wednesday, with family and fellow journalists in attendance.

Following the attack, Mogadishu police launched a crackdown on journalists who had gone to the scene to report on the incident. The 19 journalists were detained, loaded onto a police truck, and transported to Hamar Jajab police station. At the station, police confiscated their equipment and deleted their footage and photos before releasing them.

Journalists arrested on the aftermath of Mogadishu bombing on Tuesday 18 March 2025. | PHOTO:Courtesy: SJS.
Journalists arrested on the aftermath of Mogadishu bombing on Tuesday 18 March 2025. | PHOTO:Courtesy: SJS.

The arrested journalists are:

  1. Farah Mohamed Adam – Cameraman, Somali Cable TV
  2. Abdiihafid Nor Barre – Reporter, Somali Cable TV
  3. Nor Hassan Ali – Cameraman, RTN TV
  4. Hamdaan Sheikh Ahmed – Reporter, RTN TV
  5. Farhan Abdirisak Dahir – Cameraman, Himilo TV
  6. Abdullahi Abdulkadir Dahir – Reporter, Himilo TV
  7. Salman Abdirisak Shire – Cameraman, Somali People TV
  8. Qasim Abdulle Barrow – Reporter, Somali People TV
  9. Salah Osman Bille – Cameraman, RNN TV
  10. Abdullahi Yusuf Hassan – Reporter, RNN TV
  11. Ayanle Abdi Nuur – Cameraman, Goobjoog TV
  12. Rowdo Hassan Abdi – Reporter, Goobjoog TV
  13. Abdinasir Abukar Hared – Cameraman, Al Jazeera Arabic
  14. Abdirahman Hussein – Camerajournalist, Reuters
  15. Farah Abdi Warsame – Photographer, Associated Press
  16. Abukar Mohamed Muhidin – Photographer, Anadolu Agency
  17. Ismail Hussein Ismail – Cameraman, Dalsan TV
  18. Abdisalan Jule Shakir – Reporter, Dalsan TV
  19. Abdirahman Mohamed Waaberi – reporter for Daljir Media.

Shortly after these arrests, police raided the Risaala Media Corporation studio, forcibly entering the premises and shutting down both Risaala Radio and its affiliated Risaala TV. Five journalists from Risaala Media were also briefly detained before being released.

This latest crackdown comes just a week after Somali Minister of Information Daud Aweis threatened “legal action and severe punishment” against journalists and media outlets reporting on security failures in Mogadishu amid growing Al-Shabaab attacks in and around the Somali capital.

His statement on 6 March 2025, followed a terror attack warning issued by the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu and the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi respectively.

SJS strongly condemns the brutal Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu, which killed civilians, including journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe. At the same time, we denounce the ruthless crackdown by Somali police on journalists, which severely undermines press freedom. Somali media remains caught between hell and the devil—today, no journalist feels safe in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, as a result of attacks from both sides.

“The Somali government’s crackdown on journalists covering security issues is a blatant attack on press freedom. Arresting reporters, confiscating their equipment, and erasing their footage only serve to silence the truth and obstruct the public’s right to information,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, “Somali journalists are already risking their lives to report the facts, and this repression makes their work even more dangerous. The government must stop targeting the press and uphold media freedom as a fundamental right.”

“The Cabinet of Ministers must repeal its 6 March statement, which tends to criminalize media reporting on security issues. Police officers in Mogadishu must understand that journalists are there to tell the story—they should not be targeted, arrested, or have their equipment confiscated,” Mr. Mumin added.

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