South Sudanese civil society organization CEPO has expressed concern for the safety of journalist Joseph Afendi, who did not return home on Friday.

Media and civil society are describing Afendi as 'missing', but a security source tells Radio Tamazuj that he has been taken by National Security personnel to the service's Jebel headquarters.

Afendi was detained from 29 December until 19 February. His family recently hosted an event offering thanksgiving for his release.

In a statement yesterday, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, urged the government need to step up the protection of journalists “from individuals that think they are powerful by abusing the state powers for threatening and even taking away life of innocent citizens.”

He said, “CEPO is urging the government to help in searching for Afendi. It is unfortunate situation that this days are becoming dark days for journalists and media,”

Yakani wrote, “Respect and honor of the rule of law is the only tactic for building peaceful and stable society. South Sudanese that have assumed state powers should use the power for safety and protection of the citizens.”

“CEPO is worried that Afendi's life is in extreme risk. this requires quick intervention from our government,” said Yakani.

Afendi's father, father, Joseph Deng, told Eye Radio yesterday that he had not seen his son in three days. He visited the police and intends to retun today to speak to a police commander.

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