by EU News Network
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Ali Yusuf Adan, 47, a correspondent for Radio Somaliweyn, is being held by the group in Merka in southern Somalia, Amnesty International said Tuesday.
He was captured in Wanleweyn, a town northwest of the capital Mogadishu controlled by the armed group.
Adan was taken after a report was broadcast alleging al-Shabab had killed a man in the Wanleweyn district.
"Amnesty International fears for the safety of Ali Yusuf Adan, given the numerous human rights abuses committed by al-Shabab against civilians, including journalists," said Erwin van der Borght, Africa director at Amnesty International.
Al-Shabab has imposed drastic restrictions on journalists in an attempt to stifle information in areas of Somalia they control, Amnesty International reported.
Journalists who have fled Somalia told Amnesty International they received death threats from individuals claiming to be members of al-Shabab.
Source: EUNewsNet.com and OfficialWire