The family of South African journalist Micah Reddy confirmed on Tuesday that he has been released from police custody in Djibouti and is on his way home. Reddy, a journalist and the African co-ordinator at the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), was held in Djiboutian custody for four days. His family released a statement expressing relief and gratitude to those who supported them during this period.
According to the family, Reddy was detained by Djiboutian authorities on Saturday at 1pm. Despite numerous efforts by his family, colleagues, media organisations, and diplomatic representatives to establish his whereabouts and condition, no official information was provided until Tuesday. The authorities claimed that Reddy did not have proper media accreditation. He was held together with his colleague and local fixer, Kooki Mahmoud, who has also been released without charge.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) expressed relief at the news of Reddy's release. CPJ's regional director in Africa, Angela Quintal, stated that four days in secretive intelligence custody was unacceptable treatment of an investigative journalist. The CPJ welcomed Reddy's release but raised concerns about his detention and Djibouti's opaque accreditation process.
Reddy's family expressed deep concern about the lack of transparency during his detention. Despite repeated efforts, they were unable to receive direct confirmation of his and Mahmoud's conditions or establish any contact with them. The family thanked the South African and UK governments, diplomatic missions, and multilateral bodies for their efforts to secure Reddy's release.
The family also extended their gratitude to the ICIJ, civil society organisations, and fellow journalists who raised their voices in support of Reddy. They appreciated the efforts of Reddy's legal representatives who managed to secure his release. The family asked that their privacy be respected upon Reddy's return, until they are ready to share more information with the media.
Reddy's detention had raised concerns about media freedom and the treatment of journalists in Djibouti. The CPJ's Quintal stated that Djibouti's strategic importance should invite greater scrutiny, not excuse censorship and intimidation. The incident highlights the challenges faced by investigative journalists in some countries.
Reddy is expected to return to South Africa, where he will likely face a hero's welcome. His family is grateful for the safe and happy ending to this ordeal. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring their safety while working in challenging environments.
Key points
- South African journalist Micah Reddy was released from Djibouti custody on Tuesday, after being held for four days without official information about his whereabouts or condition.
- The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) welcomed Reddy's release but raised concerns about his detention and Djibouti's opaque accreditation process.
- Reddy's family expressed gratitude to those who supported them during this period, including governments, diplomatic missions, and fellow journalists.
