-Journalist Ali Hajar, who reports for Somali Channel, a Somali speaking satellite TV is in detention for the 10^th day at the Central prison, Seyla city of Somaliland.

The warrant of arrest was issued by the deputy commander of the division at a time the journalist was on duty.  Ali Hajar suffered minor injuries as a result of inhumane treatment by the police officers who arrested him such as torture and destruction of equipments. 

Residents who are well informed about the case narrated that the unlawful detention of the journalist is based on tribal issues and prejudice by the deputy commander of the division.

Even though the deputy commander maintained denial about the detention of the journalist, he spoke to elders who asked him to release Ali with tribalism jargons.  So far, no one has spoken about the arbitrary detention of the detention.  However Associated Somali Journalists - ASOJ received reliable information about the health of journalist Ali Hajar which is deteriorating.

By Dahir Alasow

ASOJ Chairman