Somali journalist Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, with over a decade of experience, faced grave danger when armed police stormed his home in Mogadishu, searching for him.
Bulbul said, as he was absent, the officers focused on his family, relentlessly asking, “Where is he? Where can he be found?”
Bulbul’s family, shaken by the police raid, denied knowing his whereabouts. The officers lingered outside for hours, ensuring no one could leave.
A police informant appeared nearby that night. This was a chilling reminder of how Bulbul’s reporting had put him at risk.
For years, Bulbul fearlessly reported on corruption, human rights abuses, and brutal tactics.
On March 8, Bulbul published a bombshell interview on Facebook with a former prisoner who recounted the horrors of Godka Jila’ow, NISA’s notorious detention facility.
“This is a story that needed to be told,” Bulbul said. “We cannot stand by as innocent people are treated like animals.”
After the interview, Bulbul said he received threats to remove the post immediately or face consequences.
But Bulbul refused. “I won’t be silenced,” he said. “These stories need to be told.”
Bulbul also reported on Al-Shabaab’s growing presence in Mogadishu. He warned of potential terrorist attacks in the capital.
The U.S. Embassy had issued a security alert on March 4, warning of credible threats against multiple locations, including the Aden Adde International Airport.
Bulbul’s articles exposed the growing fears gripping the city. Airlines suspended flights to Mogadishu, and residents feared for their safety.
The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) condemned the raid on Bulbul’s home, urging an end to the harassment he faced for his critical reporting.
These threats follow the killing of journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe, the arrest of 24 journalists covering the Al-Shabaab attack, and the raid on Radio Risaala.
Despite the mounting threats, Bulbul remained resolute. “I will continue to report the truth, no matter the risks,” he said, his voice calm but firm.
