Addis Standard’s Managing Editor Abducted From Newsroom, Whereabouts Remain Unknown | The Reporter Ethiopia

Million Beyene, managing editor of Addis Standardwas abducted from his newsroom by unidentified men in plain clothes on April 15, 2026.

A statement issued by Jakenn Publishing PLC reveals Million was told he was “needed for questioning” before being taken to an undisclosed location, and that his whereabouts remain unknown.

The publisher and staff at Addis Standard say they have made extensive efforts to locate Million, but both the Addis Ababa and Federal police commissions have confirmed that the managing editor is not in their custody, according to the statement.

Jeylan Abdi, Federal Police Commission communications head, explicitly stated that Million is not in federal custody.

Senior surveillance officers within both commissions have further stated that the men seen taking Million away in security footage are not members of their respective forces, according to the statement.

“Jakenn Publishing calls on the relevant authorities, including the Addis Ababa Police, the Federal Police Commission, and Ethiopian Human Rights Commission to launch an immediate, transparent, and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Million’s disappearance and to ensure his safe and prompt return. Million Beyene is a provider for his family and a seasoned professional with years of experience in both government and independent media. His abduction comes amid repeated and intensifying security and administrative pressures targeting Addis Standard’s newsroom and operations in recent months,” reads the statement.

Million’s abduction comes less than two months after the Ethiopian Media Authority announced it was revoking Addis Standard’s license for “disseminating reports that conflict with issues of national interest.”

“We strongly condemn this alarming act,” said Yonas Kedir, Editor-in-Chief of Addis Standard. “The taking of Million Beyene by unidentified individuals is unacceptable and deeply troubling. We call for his immediate release, and we urge authorities to act swiftly to ensure his safety and uphold the rule of law.”