GAROWE, PUNTLAND — The Safe Reporters of Somalia (SRS) expresses its deep concern over the ongoing, unlawful detention of journalist Mohamed Nagaashe. Mr. Nagaashe has been held at the central prison in Qardho, Puntland, for four consecutive days without any formal legal charges brought against him—an act that SRS categorizes as an arbitrary abduction.
Retaliation for Independent Reporting
Mr. Nagaashe was detained shortly after broadcasting a report that highlighted local residents’ growing concerns regarding deteriorating security conditions in Qardho. Instead of addressing the legitimate grievances of the public, Puntland authorities chose to silence the reporter who brought these issues to light.
“There is no circumstance under which reporting facts and realities on the ground should be considered a crime. Journalists must not be punished for carrying out their professional duties. SRS calls for the immediate and unconditional release of journalist Mohamed Nagaashe, who is being held without any legal charges.”
— Hanad Ali Guled, SRS Spokesperson
A Growing Threat to Press Freedom
SRS emphasizes that intimidation, arbitrary detentions, and threats against media professionals are direct violations of fundamental human rights. A journalist’s core responsibility is to serve the public interest by providing citizens with transparent, independent information.
Call to Action
SRS urgently calls upon the Puntland administration to:
* Immediately and unconditionally release journalist Mohamed Nagaashe.
* Cease the harassment and weaponization of state apparatuses against independent media.
* Uphold constitutional guarantees regarding press freedom, which serves as the cornerstone of transparent governance and an informed society.
