Mogadishu, Somalia – Somali security forces in Mogadishu have detained eleven journalists working for various local media outlets for interviewing opposition figures and government critics, multiple media houses reported on Monday.
The detained journalists were reportedly apprehended from different parts of the capital after airing or publishing critical content involving opposition politicians.
The move has sparked concern among media rights groups and press freedom advocates, who say the arrests reflect an increasing crackdown on independent journalism in the country.
Local media outlets have called for the immediate release of their colleagues, arguing that they were simply performing their professional duties under constitutional protections.
Somali authorities have not yet publicly commented on the detentions.
However, several human rights organizations are urging the government to respect freedom of expression and ensure journalists can work without fear of reprisals.
Somalia ranks among the most challenging environments for journalists, with threats from both state and non-state actors.
