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Puntland arrests two journalists over tax protest coverage and militia video
Officers detained Mohamad Jama Mohamud on 14 July in Bosaso and had earlier arrested Suways Jama Mohamud on 2 June. Suways was released on bail the next day. Both detentions followed stories on local protests and security issues.
Jul 16, 1:05 AM·1m read1 source
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Puntland Intelligence Service officers arrested journalist Mohamad Jama Mohamud in Bosaso on 14 July 2026 and took him to agency headquarters. AllAfrica reported that the detention followed a news article Mohamud published about local traders who suspended business to protest new taxes on goods imported through the port of Bosaso.
The port, Puntland's largest commercial gateway, has remained closed since 1 July amid the tax dispute.
Mohamad Jama Mohamud remains in custody. On 2 June, Puntland police arrested Suways Jama Mohamud, founder of the online publication Suways Media, and transferred her to Garowe Central Prison. Her detention came after she posted a YouTube video that raised concerns about a militia group in a Garowe neighborhood.
Authorities released her on bail on 15 July. NUSOJ President Omar Faruk Osman said journalists have a professional responsibility to report on matters of public interest even when their work makes those in power uncomfortable. He urged Puntland authorities to drop all charges against both journalists and release Mohamad immediately and unconditionally.
IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger stated that the arrests form part of a systematic pattern used by Puntland authorities to silence journalists and called for Mohamad's release and the dropping of all charges against both reporters.
