Ethiopian Journalist Salsawit Baynesayegn Reportedly Taken From Home

June 16, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

Journalist Salsawit Baynesayegn was reportedly taken from her home by individuals identified by her family as security personnel, with relatives saying they have not received official information about the reason for her detention.

Salsawit, who previously worked with Walta and Fana media organisations, was taken on Monday, June 8, 2026 EC, Haymanot Baynesayegn, who spoke to Tikvah Ethiopia.

Haymanot said a group of people wearing police uniforms arrived at the journalist’s residence and took her away together with a domestic worker. The domestic worker was later released, while Salsawit remained in custody, she said.

The family member said the individuals who took Salsawit did not initially present a summons. She said they later returned with a warrant and searched the residence after keeping the house under police watch for several hours.

The family said it has been unable to confirm the reason behind the detention. Haymanot said they suspect it may be related to a case involving a killing in Arsi, but stressed that they had not received confirmation from authorities.

According to her sister, Salsawit has not appeared before a court since she was taken and remains in detention. She said the family’s attempts to seek information from police have only resulted in requests to wait.

Salsawit had previously worked at Walta and Fana before moving into independent journalism, producing content through platforms including YouTube, TikTok and Facebook.

The family has called for due legal process, saying Salsawit is a mother and a key provider for her household.