06 July 2007
Paulos Kidane
Unknown
Paulos Kidane died last month in an attempt to flee on foot across the border into Sudan.
Paulos, a journalist with the Amharic-language service of state-owned Eri-TV and radio Dimtsi Hafash -- or Voice of the Broad Masses -- had to be left behind by companions after he collapsed during the arduous trek. Several weeks later, government officials informed his family of his "accidental death", the Reporters without Borders statement added. Paulos was amongst nine journalists arrested last November on suspicion of staying in contact with colleagues who have fled the country, or of planning to leave Eritrea themselves, RSF said.
All were later released but placed under strict surveillance that included having their telephones tapped, the media watchdog added. Paulos was "a humble man, not overly ambitious, known for his jokes and his loud laugh," the statement said, quoting a friend of the journalist. Leaving Eritrea without permission is highly dangerous, with guards reportedly operating a shoot-to-kill policy on those who try to slip across the border illegally.
