Mogadishu, Somalia – The Somali Media Women Association has strongly condemned the continued illegal detention of media equipment belonging to Kalsan TV by police authorities in Mogadishu, describing the act as a serious violation of press freedom and journalists’ rights.
According to Kalsan TV, essential broadcasting equipment confiscated from its journalists has now been held for eight consecutive days by the Command of the Banadir Regional Police Division without legal basis. The equipment reportedly includes a Camera Action 5 Pro and DJI Mic Mini, tools considered critical for daily reporting operations.
The media outlet said the equipment was seized from Kalsan TV journalists while carrying out their professional duties, and that the order was issued by the commander of the Galbeed Police Division, Yaasiin Ganeey.
In a statement, SOMWA said the continued confiscation of journalists’ working tools reflects the growing pattern of intimidation and obstruction targeting independent media in Somalia.
“SOMWA strongly condemns the unlawful seizure and continued detention of Kalsan TV’s equipment. Such actions undermine freedom of expression, restrict journalists from carrying out their professional responsibilities, and violate constitutional protections for media freedom,” the organization stated.
SOMWA further expressed concern over the increasing incidents of harassment, intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and confiscation of equipment targeting journalists in Mogadishu and across Somalia, particularly during periods of heightened political tension.
The organization called on Somali authorities to immediately and unconditionally return the confiscated equipment and ensure that security agencies respect national laws and international standards protecting media freedom.
“Kalsan TV journalists, like all media professionals, have the right to work freely and safely without fear of intimidation or unlawful interference,” SOMWA added.
The condemnation comes amid renewed concerns from local and international press freedom advocates over shrinking civic space and rising violations against journalists in Somalia.
