Sudanese Journalists Syndicate Condemns Disappearance of Journalist Abdul Jalil Mohamed, Demands His Immediate Release

moatinoon, May 26, 2025 – The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate has expressed grave concern over circulating reports regarding the disappearance of prominent journalist Abdul Jalil Mohamed Abdul Jalil under mysterious circumstances since Sunday afternoon, May 25, 2025.

This development raises further concerns about press freedom and fundamental rights in Sudan amid current challenges.

According to his family, journalist Abdul Jalil was taken from his home in Kassala city in a manner that violates the most basic standards of legal procedures, and without a formal charge or a judicial arrest warrant being issued. His family indicated that the apprehension was carried out in a style "closer to kidnapping operations," as Abdul Jalil was not given the opportunity to inform his family, carry his personal medications, or contact his lawyer. His phone was confiscated, and he was prevented from any communication. Unofficial reports later emerged suggesting his arrest was due to journalistic writings addressing "suspicions of corruption in the Hajj and Umrah file," which allegedly displeased the Deputy Governor of Kassala, as stated in a statement issued by his family.

In a statement released today, the Journalists Syndicate considered this behavior "a blatant assault on press freedom and expression, and a violation of international covenants and conventions to which the Sudanese state is committed." The Syndicate held the executive authorities in Kassala State, particularly the Deputy Governor and the Acting Minister of Social Affairs, "fully responsible for the safety and fate of journalist Abdul Jalil."

The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate demanded the immediate and unconditional release of journalist Abdul Jalil Mohamed Abdul Jalil, the opening of a swift and impartial investigation into the circumstances of his disappearance and detention, and the accountability of those responsible for this incident, as well as anyone who exploited their executive position to settle personal scores with a journalist.

The Syndicate also called on all local and international organizations concerned with freedom of expression to show solidarity and exert pressure to stop these repressive practices, reaffirming that journalism is not a crime, and that the response to free pens should not be through oppression but through transparency, truth, and law.