Hargeisa, Somaliland – August 6, 2025
The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) strongly condemns the arrest of journalist Ahmed Mohamud Dool, who was detained yesterday, on 5th Aug. 2025, by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Hargeisa.

According to reports, journalist Ahmed Dool was summoned to the CID headquarters in the capital early on Tuesday morning. Upon arrival, he was taken into custody without any formal charges being disclosed at the time. As of now, no clear explanation has been provided regarding the grounds for his detention.

Today, journalist Ahmed Dool was brought before the court and was remanded in custody for four days. Despite this legal action, the specific charges against him remain unclear. SOLJA is deeply concerned about the continued lack of transparency in his case.

This marks the 20th arrest of a journalist in Somaliland in 2025 alone—an alarming pattern that raises serious concerns about press freedom in the country. SOLJA expresses grave concern over the repeated arrests of journalists simply for carrying out their professional duties. Such actions pose a direct threat to freedom of expression and the democratic principles Somaliland upholds.

SOLJA urges the Somaliland government and relevant security agencies to respect and protect the rights of journalists. Every arrest of a journalist undermines democracy and infringes upon the fundamental right to free speech.

We reaffirm that a free and independent press is a cornerstone of democratic development. Journalists must be allowed to work without fear of intimidation, harassment, or arbitrary detention.

SOLJA continues to closely monitor the situation of journalist Ahmed Dool and emphasizes its commitment to securing his immediate release. We will ensure that he has access to legal representation to safeguard his legal and human rights.