Families of Somali youths who migrated irregularly to Algeria staged a protest in Garowe, the capital of Puntland, on Sunday, demanding information about the whereabouts and wellbeing of their relatives.
The demonstrators, made up of parents and close relatives, expressed growing concern over the fate of the young migrants, saying they have been unable to obtain clear information about their loved ones despite repeated efforts.
During the protest, the families directed sharp criticism at Somalia’s Ambassador to Algeria, Yusuf Hassan Ahmed (Jooge).
According to the protesters, the ambassador had previously informed them that the youths were in his custody or under his supervision and advised families to send financial assistance.
They now allege that he has failed to provide clear updates and is avoiding their requests for information.
The protesters called on Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and senior federal government officials to launch an investigation into the matter and determine the circumstances surrounding the missing youths.
They also urged authorities to obtain accurate information about the migrants and clarify their current situation, arguing that the ambassador was among the last officials believed to have had direct knowledge of their whereabouts.
The demonstration highlights the growing challenges faced by Somali families whose relatives undertake dangerous migration journeys through North Africa in search of better economic opportunities.
Many migrants traveling through the region face risks including detention, human trafficking, exploitation, and limited access to consular assistance.
As of now, neither the Somali Embassy in Algeria nor Somalia’s federal government has publicly responded to the allegations raised by the protesting families in Garowe.
The relatives say they will continue seeking answers until they receive credible information regarding the fate of their children and family members.