Mogadishu, Somalia – The Somali Women Journalists Organization (SWJO) strongly condemns the detention and harassment of 9 journalists by government security forces in Mogadishu. These journalists were conducting vox pop interviews on the political situation in the country along Maka-Almukarama Street—a central and busy public area—when they were detained.
During their detention, the journalists were subjected to intimidation and harassment. Security forces forcibly erased their recordings and warned them not to return to the area for reporting purposes. Although they were eventually released after several hours, this act represents a direct violation of press freedom and the right of journalists to work without fear or interference.
The detained journalists include:
- Cabdinaasir Cabdulqaadir – Shabelle TV
- Cabdinasir Sayid Cali Socdaal – Shabelle TV
- Ismaaciil Yabarow – Somali Cable TV
- Maxamed Adan – Somali Cable TV
- Jacfar Cabdirisaaq – Goobjoog TV
- Shukri Shacni – Goobjoog TV
- Xasan Axmed Taakow – SYL TV
- Cabdiraxman Cabdulle Rooble – SYL TV
- Xuseen Maxamed Sigane – Hilal Somali TV
This incident is a troubling infringement on the rights of media professionals and an alarming signal for the state of press freedom in Somalia. Journalists are vital to democracy and must be allowed to work freely, without intimidation or censorship. SWJO calls for a full investigation into the incident and for those responsible to be held accountable.
We also call on national and international media rights and human rights organizations to stand in solidarity with Somali journalists and to raise their voices against this unjust treatment. Protecting the media is essential for safeguarding truth, transparency, and the public’s right to information.
SWJO remains firmly committed to defending the rights and safety of all journalists, with a special focus on women in media, who continue to face unique risks and challenges. We will continue to advocate for a free, fair, and independent press in Somalia
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