Mogadishu (RBC) The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) has learned that two Somali reporters were slightly wounded on Saturday’s suicide bombing attack at the village restaurant that killed at least 18 in Mogadishu on 07 September, 2013 around 11:00am.
Flying shrapnel slightly wounded Mohamed Hasan Ali nicknamed “National”, a reporter for the Mogadishu based Haatuf radio, left hand and right leg and Shuceyb Awil Dahir, a reporter for Kulmiye Radio also received slight head injury. Both working for privately owned radio stations.
Dozens of journalists go to the village restaurant everyday for chatting and exchange of information. Last September, three journalists were killed among 15 killed following suicide bombing attack on this very same restaurant.
“The attack occurred soon after the journalists left for work to their respective media houses.” Mohamed Hassan Ali, who was among the wounded journalists said ”We were very lucky.”
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) condemns the attack and called it “misfortune” and calls on the journalists to be vigilant on public gatherings.
“We are really outraged about this attack that wounded two of our colleagues among others and concerned about the security of our members.” Mohamed Ibrahim, NUSOJ Secretary-General said, “We call on the Federal Government of Somalia to give key priority to the protection of journalists and the freedom of expression in order to minimize the risk facing the Somali journalists and end the impunity once and for all”
“We ask Allah to give speedy recovery to the wounds of the colleagues.” Mr. Ibrahim added.
Somalia is considered as one of the most dangerous countries to be a journalist. Six media workers have been killed in Somalia this year alone and 18 Media workers were killed in 2012.
RBC Radio