On 7 September 2026, journalist Bashir Mohamed Abdullahi, a 23-year-old reporter with Arlaadi Media Network, died in Baidoa, Southwest State, after sustaining gunshot injuries on 3 September during armed clashes. According to the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), Bashir had left his home to carry out his journalistic duties when he was reportedly stopped by unidentified armed men, questioned and shot twice in the back. He was taken to Bay General Hospital for treatment but died before he could be transferred to Mogadishu for further medical care.
The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) also reported his death and stated that he had been shot during the fighting in Baidoa. UNESCO subsequently confirmed his death and called on the authorities to investigate the attack and protect journalists facing threats because of their work. UNESCO records Bashir as the second journalist killed in Somalia in 2026.
The incident raises concerns about the safety of journalists and the ability of independent media and other civic actors to document and report on political, security and human-rights developments in conflict-affected areas.