Kidnappings and Tortures in Somaliland
Human Rights League of the Horn of Africa - May 6, 2008

Two Oromo refugees are in a critical condition after they were kidnapped and tortured by Ethiopian solders operating in Somaliland.

1. Bayan Muktar Mohammed was kidnapped by members of the Ethiopian army in Wachale, Somaliland on Febrauary 2nd, 2008 and taken to a nearby military camp where he was severely tortured. Bayan Muktar Mohammed, who is originally from Western Hararge of Oromia region, is a UNHCR-registered refugee seeking asylum. Bayan was forced to flee his homeland due to continuous harassments and intimidations. He is a father of five; and head of a family of six, all of whom are dependent on him. Bayan Muktar, who managed to return back to Wachale, Somaliland after escaping from the military detention, is in a critical condition due to the severe torture inflicted on him; and one of his hands is paralysed, according to the HRLHA reporter in Wachale, Somaliland.

2. Abdumalik Adam Abdulahi age 32, born in Hararge/Dadar was kidnapped by unidentified armed groups in Hargessa on February 15, 2008 and handed over to Ethiopian soldiers. Abdulmalik was kidnapped at gun point from a place where he was working as a watchman. According to HRL reporter, Abdumalik was taken into the Ethiopian border to Jijjiga military camp, where he was held in solitary confinement for about one Month. He was subjected to continuous interrogations and torture while he was in custody. He was finally released on grounds that he was mistaken and kidnapped wrongly. Abdumalik Adam is also in critical condition due to the severe torture. Read More.