SPECIAL ASSESSMENT: GODKA JILACOW PRISON (THE HOLE) REMAINS OPERATIONAL
Somali authorities have detained several prominent tuk-tuk (Bajaj) drivers and activists following widespread protests over a significant increase in petrol prices, according to local reports and civil-society sources.
Among those arrested was Sacdiyo Moalim Ali, known as Sacdiyo Bajaaj, a university graduate and prominent female Bajaj driver who supports her family in a male-dominated profession. She was detained in Mogadishu on 11 March 2026 after participating in and organizing protests by Bajaj drivers against a nearly 192% fuel price increase — from around 0.60 to 1.75 per liter. Her detention for several days prompted criticism from opposition figures and analysts, who called for her immediate release.
Reports indicate that two other well-known tuk-tuk activists, Sayid Ali (known as Saan Miyaa) and Abdi Dheere, were previously arrested. Both were reportedly apprehended by the Somali Police Force and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) on Maka al-Mukarama Avenue after publicly criticizing government corruption and highlighting the hunger and repression experienced by Mogadishu residents. Observers described their detentions as part of a broader crackdown on media, public commentary, and dissent.
They are currently held at Hodan district police station in Mogadishu. Sacdiyo’s family attempted to visit her in jail but were denied access. No formal charges have been filed, and the detainees have not been brought before a court; some have been held for more than 48 hours. More concerningly, the police station reportedly lacks separate detention facilities for men and women, meaning women such as Sacdiyo are being held in the same area as male detainees. The Mogadishu Police Commander reportedly delivered a speech threatening to kill protesters if demonstrations do not cease.
Human rights advocates and opposition leaders have condemned the arrests as disproportionate responses to peaceful protest and public criticism, arguing that the actions reflect mounting pressure on civil society and raise serious concerns about freedom of expression in Somalia. Calls for transparency regarding the grounds for detention and respect for the rights of peaceful protest have intensified amid ongoing economic hardship linked to rising fuel costs.
The Somali government has not issued a comprehensive public statement detailing charges or legal proceedings in these cases. International and local rights organizations continue to monitor developments and are urging adherence to due process and protection of protesters’ civil liberties.
The Somali government has frequently been accused of detaining activists — including women and girls — and of silencing dissenters. Detainees are reportedly held in prisons and detention facilities where they may face hunger and lack of adequate food.
Protesters Behind Bars, The Hole Still Open: Bajaj Drivers and Activists Detained in Mogadishu
Ismail M. Abukar
Director of Human Rights Department