[CLSTR]
< Back to situations

Monitor this situation.

[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [INTERNATIONAL]

2 clusters · 4 sources · 5 days · First seen · Last updated

Abduction of journalist Kananelo Boloetse in Lesotho

Overview

On September 5, 2026, journalist and human rights defender Kananelo Boloetse was reportedly abducted from his home in Katlehong, Maseru, by three unidentified men. During the incident, Boloetse was allegedly handcuffed, had duct tape used to seal his mouth, and was interrogated regarding his journalism and human rights advocacy. He was subjected to physical assault and death threats before being abandoned injured in Thaba-Bosiu.

Following the attack, Boloetse received medical treatment and filed a police complaint in Maseru. Reports have emerged suggesting he may have been under surveillance prior to the abduction, noting a silver Toyota Starlet loitering near his residence.

International and local rights organizations, including Amnesty International, the International Federation of Journalists, and MISA Lesotho, are calling for an independent investigation by Lesotho authorities to ensure justice and guarantee the safety of journalists in the country.

Entities

Kananelo Boloetse · Amnesty International · Maseru · Newsday Media · International Federation of Journalists

Timeline

  1. 11 days ago

    [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    Journalist Kananelo Boloetse abducted and assaulted in Lesotho

    Lesotho journalist and human rights defender Kananelo Boloetse was abducted, assaulted, and threatened by unidentified men in Maseru, prompting urgent calls for an independent investigation.

  2. 15 days ago

    [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    Journalist Kananelo Boloetse reportedly abducted and assaulted in Lesotho

    Amnesty International has demanded an investigation in Lesotho after journalist Kananelo Boloetse was reportedly abducted, interrogated, and assaulted by unidentified men in Maseru.

Sources

amnesty-suedliches-afrika.de · amnesty.org · axadletimes.com · lesothotribune.co.ls