# Journalist Al-Raih Essam Jaxa Detained in Sudan IPI demands the immediate release of journalist Al-Raih Essam Jaxa detained in Sudan. - **Published:** 2026-08-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1e88f0c9-8df8-4cc3-88ad-6fc054a0c00f ## Detention Incident Hekaiyat Baankhi Press journalist Al-Raih Essam Jaxa was detained by the Sudan Shield Forces at a checkpoint on August 2 while returning from a reporting assignment. Reports indicate he was forcibly removed from his car and taken to an undisclosed location. Serious concerns remain about his current condition and safety. This incident adds to the growing list of journalist detentions in Sudan. ## Press Freedom Violations Pressure on journalists has been increasing in Sudan recently. In October 2025, journalist Muammar Ibrahim was detained by the Rapid Support Forces and has been held since then. The International Press Institute (IPI) calls on all warring parties to respect media freedom and stop targeting journalists. Journalism in Sudan is becoming increasingly risky. ## International Reactions IPI demanded Jaxa's immediate and unconditional release. The organization called on all warring factions in Sudan to stop violence and detentions against journalists. The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate (SJS) also condemned the incident, demanding urgent information about Jaxa's condition. The international community is expected to highlight press freedom violations in Sudan. ## Risks for Journalists In Sudan's conflict environment, journalists are targeted by both state forces and armed groups. Detentions, violence, and censorship practices are increasing. International protection mechanisms need to be activated for journalists' safety. Independent media workers especially face significant risks while reporting. ## Legal Process No official statement has been made about Jaxa's detention. It remains unclear on what grounds the Sudan Shield Forces detained the journalist. International law guarantees journalists shouldn't face arbitrary detentions. However, the lack of legal processes in Sudan raises concerns. ## Regional Impacts Press freedom violations in Sudan are causing concern in other regional countries. The risks of practicing journalism in Africa are increasing. Similar detention and pressure practices are seen in neighboring countries. International organizations call on all regional countries to protect media freedom. ## Journalists' Role In conflict zones, journalists play a vital role in conveying truths to the world. But they risk their lives while performing this duty. The recent incident in Sudan once again shows how vulnerable journalists are. Urgent measures are needed to protect media workers. ## Calls and Consequences IPI and other international organizations call on all parties in Sudan to release journalists. Protecting press freedom is a cornerstone of democratic society. Events in Sudan remind us how fragile journalism freedom is globally. Concrete steps from the international community are expected. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/international-press-institute-ipi-_sudanese-journalist-detained-by-armed-group-activity-7496121458516221952-Xjgh — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._