Somalia intelligence agencies accused of silencing journalists

Journalists in Somalia are facing increasing threats, intimidation, and detention from intelligence and security agencies. Reports indicate a growing trend where agencies like the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) use extra-legal actions to silence critical reporting, bypassing traditional police and court systems.

Freelance journalist Mohamed Bulbul was recently forced into exile after being physically assaulted and threatened by masked operatives following a report co-authored for The Guardian. Bulbul reported being given the choice to work for the agency, leave the country, or face death.

Similar incidents have been reported in Mogadishu and Puntland. In Garowe, Suways Jama Mohamed, founder of the Facebook-based news platform Suways Media, was arrested at her home, highlighting the risks faced by those covering social issues and critical journalism across the country.