On August 5, 2025, police in Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State arrested Khadar Mohamed Ismael, a reporter with the state-owned Somali Regional Television (SRTV), according to the online outlet VOSS TV and a relative who spoke to CPJ on condition of anonymity, citing safety concerns.
On August 9, Khadar appeared in court without legal representation and was questioned about a now-deleted August 4 post on SRTV’s official Facebook page that reported residents’ criticisms of regional authorities, the relative said.
CPJ’s August emailed request for comment to the Somali Regional State Communications Affairs Bureau did not receive a response.
On October 27, Khadar was released without charge or explanation, after more than 80 days' detention.