The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) today welcomed the release of Somali journalist, Abdifatah Mohamed Elmi, after 146 days in captivity.

Photojournalist, Abdifatah Mohamed Elmi, was abducted on August 23, 2008 with two foreign journalists, namely Amanda Lindout of Canada and Nigel Brenan of Australia. Elmi's two drivers, Mohad Isse and Marwali were also abducted.

According to National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), Elmi was released on Thursday, January 15, 2009 together with the two drivers, Mohad and Marwali.

"While we welcome the release of Elmi, we are still deeply concerned about the safety of Amanda Lindout and Nigel Brenan," said Gabriel Baglo, Director of the IFJ Africa Office.  "Somalia has been continuously difficult for journalists to execute their duties without being intimidated, kidnapped or even killed. We must find a way to resolve this unbearable situation."

The IFJ once again urges the Somali Transitional Government to put more efforts to ensure the safety of journalists working in the country. In the same vein, the IFJ also calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Amanda and Nigel.

For more information contat IFJ at  + 221 867 95 87

IFJ represents over 600 000 journalists in 123 countries worldwide