Journalist Abdihafid Nor was abducted in Mogadishu by armed Somali National Army officers on February 24, 2026, shortly after he reported on a critical issue regarding the dismissal of Turkish-trained officers amidst a pay dispute. His abduction has raised serious concerns among media freedom advocates, with the Somali Journalists Syndicate condemning the act and calling for his immediate release. Eyewitnesses described the incident occurring in the early morning hours at a local restaurant where Nor was present, indicating the brazen nature of the enforcement action taken against him.

The circumstances surrounding Nor's abduction appear to correlate closely with his journalistic activities, suggesting that issues regarding military conduct and accountability are particularly sensitive topics in Somalia's current political climate. The involvement of armed military personnel, some in uniform and others in plain clothes, underscores a potentially dangerous precedent for journalists operating in the region. This event has not only put Nor's safety at risk but may also intimidate other media personnel from reporting on governmental or military matters, raising alarms over censorship and the suppression of press freedom in Somalia.

As the SJS continues to advocate for Nor's release, this incident serves as a reminder of the precarious position journalists face in conflict-affected areas, where their reporting can incite violent backlash from those in power. The broader implications of this situation underline the ongoing struggles for press freedom and human rights in Somalia, necessitating greater international attention and support for the safety and well-being of journalists in the region.