URGENT ACTION

JOURNALIST RELEASED AND ALL CHARGES DROPPED
On 17 August, plain-clothed security officers arrested Mohamed Ibrahim Osman Bulbul, a journalist with Kaab TV and staff member of a local media advocacy organization, Somali Journalists Syndicate. The arrest took place a day after he released a story about alleged misappropriation of European Union funds meant for training officers from the Somali police. On 25 September, he was charged with “bringing the State into contempt” and for “circulating false and tendentious news”. He was transferred to the Mogadishu Central Prison on 28 September. On 7 October, Mohamed was released on bail and a few days later, on 11 October, the Bandir regional court dismissed all charges against him.

NO FURTHER ACTION IS REQUESTED. MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO SENT APPEALS.

On 7 October – only a day after Amnesty International issued an Urgent Action calling for his release – Somali journalist Mohamed Ibrahim Osman Bulbul was released on bail. He was urgently hospitalized after his release after contracting an infection while in detention. He has since been discharged from hospital and is recovering well.

A few days later, on 11 October, the Bandir regional court dismissed all charges against Mohamed Ibrahim Osman Bulbul. The court revoked the terms of the bail that was initially given to him and ordered his unconditional release and freedom. The court did not allow the prosecutors the opportunity to appeal against its decision.

On 17 August, plain-clothed security officers arrested Mohamed Ibrahim Osman Bulbul, a journalist with Kaab TV and staff member of a local media advocacy organization, Somali Journalists Syndicate. The arrest took place a day after he released a story about alleged misappropriation of European Union funds meant for training officers from the Somali police. On 25 September, he was charged with “bringing the State into contempt” and for “circulating false and tendentious news”.

Mohamed Ibrahim Osman Bulbul and his colleagues relayed their heartful thanks to Amnesty International for its action and support. In a message he sent to the organization, Mohamed said: “I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your support and tireless advocacy for my freedom. Your Urgent Action has really played a huge role in ensuring that I gained my freedom. I am deeply touched by your solidarity.”

NAME AND  PRONOUN: Mohamed Ibrahim Osman Bulbul (he/his)

THIS IS THE SECOND AND FINAL OUTPUT FOR UA 94/23

LINK TO PREVIOUS UA: http://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/afr52/7279/2023/en/