Somali Broadcast Journalist Shot Dead in Kismayo as Police Officer Arrested

A Somali broadcast journalist was shot dead in the southern city of Kismayo in Jubaland state, prompting condemnation from press freedom groups and renewed concerns about the safety of journalists in Somalia.

The journalist, Abshir Khalif Shidane, was fatally shot on the evening of 2 March 2026 at around 7:30 p.m. local time. According to initial reports gathered by media organisations and journalists’ unions, the shooting followed a brief altercation between Shidane and a police officer. Authorities later confirmed that the officer suspected of carrying out the shooting had been arrested shortly after the incident.

Shidane had reportedly been returning from a Ramadan iftar gathering with fellow journalists shortly before the attack. Colleagues said the group had been working on editing a recorded programme featuring political figures, and Shidane had completed a voiceover for a video scheduled for release later that evening.

Officials in Jubaland confirmed that the suspected police officer involved in the shooting was detained and will face investigation. Captain Shukri Farah Duale, spokesperson for the Jubaland police, said the authorities intend to pursue a full legal process to determine responsibility and ensure accountability for the killing.

According to local reports, the journalist was shot in the chest during the confrontation, with the bullet causing severe internal injuries that proved fatal. The exact motive behind the incident remains unclear, and authorities have said a comprehensive investigation is underway to establish the circumstances leading to the shooting.

Shidane had been working as a freelance journalist for about three months. During his career, he collaborated with several media outlets in Somalia, including Jubaland TV, Radio Waamo, and the media contractor Hornconnect, and was also known for his work as a photographer.

Journalists’ organisations in Somalia strongly condemned the killing. The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) described the incident as deeply troubling and stressed that law enforcement officers have a responsibility to protect journalists rather than endanger them. Media advocates called for a transparent investigation and swift justice for the slain reporter.

The Somali Journalists Syndicate and other media groups also expressed alarm, noting that Shidane’s death underscores the continuing dangers faced by journalists working in the country. They urged authorities to ensure accountability and provide stronger protections for media workers.

Shidane’s killing is reported to be the first journalist death recorded in Somalia in 2026, highlighting ongoing concerns about press freedom and journalist safety in the region.

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Broadcast Journalist Shot Dead in Kismayo as Police Officer Arrested

ALERT: Local journalist shot dead in Kismayo, Jubaland State of Somalia

Jubaland police announce the arrest of the suspected police officer in the killing of journalist Abshir Khalif Shidane.

Broadcast Journalist Shot Dead in Kismayo as Police Officer Arrested