Jubbaland police officer arrested for fatal shooting of journalist Abshir Khaliif Shidane in Kismayo

A Jubbaland police officer has been arrested for the fatal shooting of prominent journalist Abshir Khaliif Shidane in Kismayo, Jubbaland, according to local authorities and media reports. The incident occurred Monday evening, March 2, 2026, following an altercation between the journalist and the officer, though the exact motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.

Eyewitnesses and local police officials told the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) that the 25-year-old journalist was shot once in the left side of his chest, with the bullet passing through his lungs and damaging his heart before exiting his back. Abshir had been leaving his home around 7:30 PM East Africa Time to head to the city center when the officer attempted to stop him and immediately opened fire. The suspect initially fled the scene but was later apprehended and is now in custody.

Abshir, who previously worked for Waamo Radio in Kismayo and Jubaland State TV, had no prior recorded threats linked to his work, according to SJS. The Syndicate has expressed deep concern over the killing, calling it a shocking attack that raises serious worries about the safety of journalists operating in Somalia. SJS Secretary-General Cabdalle Muumin emphasized the need for a thorough and transparent investigation to hold those responsible accountable and ensure that journalists can perform their duties without fear of harassment or violence, both in Jubbaland and across Somalia.

This marks the first journalist killing in Somalia in 2026. Last year, two journalists were killed: one in a targeted Al-Shabaab attack and another by a lone armed assailant in Mogadishu. The killing of Abshir Khaliif Shidane has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger protections and accountability mechanisms for media workers throughout the country.

Authorities in Jubbaland have pledged to investigate the incident fully and ensure justice is served for the family of Abshir while reinforcing measures to protect journalists from similar attacks in the future.