By HAN News Desk
HARGEISA — Authorities in Somaliland have arrested four journalists working for local media outlets in Gebiley as they were traveling to the commercial border town of Tog-Wajaale for reporting assignments.
According to information obtained by Galaydh TV, the detained journalists are:
1. Xamse Cabdirashiid
2. Farxaan Cabdi Aw Ciise
3. Cabdisamad Bade
4. Sayid Hanad Maxamed, also known as Madar
Sources say the journalists were intercepted and taken into custody upon entering Tog-Wajaale, which serves as a key trade hub between Somaliland and Ethiopia. Their arrest was reportedly ordered by the Governor of Gebiley region, Mohamed Abdillahi Bookh.
While authorities have not provided any official reason for the arrests, local journalists and human rights defenders describe the move as part of a growing crackdown on media freedom in Somaliland. Observers note that independent journalism has faced increasing restrictions, particularly when covering government affairs or sensitive political issues.
The four journalists are said to be held at Gebiley Police Station, and their families have voiced concern over their welfare and the conditions of their detention.
This incident brings the total number of journalists detained in Somaliland to 36 since President Cabdiraxmaan Maxamed Cabdillaahi (Cirro) came to power, according to media watchdogs.
Press freedom organizations have condemned the arrests, urging Somaliland’s government to release the journalists immediately and to respect constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression.
International human rights advocates have also warned that the rising number of journalist detentions threatens Somaliland’s reputation as a relatively stable and democratic territory in the Horn of Africa.
