A military tribunal in northern Somalia’s state of Northeastern State has sentenced four members of Al-Shabaab, highlighting the country’s determination to defeat the group. The court imposed a death penalty on Mohamud Mohamed Qayliye for his role in assassinations in Bosaso, the largest city in Northeastern State. Al-Shabaab has long sought to launch attacks in Northeastern State.
Three other militants received prison terms ranging from 3 to 15 years, while one was acquitted. Military courts are a reliable source of justice in a country where civilian courts are largely non-functional. The men were accused of using their vehicles to transport Al-Shabaab members from mountainous regions to carry out attacks on civilians and government officials in the area. Following two murder cases in Bosaso, they were apprehended.
Northeastern State police seized a vehicle believed to have been used by the militants for their operations. Northeastern State is considered one of the safer regions in Somalia, with fewer incidents of Al-Shabaab activity. Al-Shabaab often clashes with IS-Somalia militants, both vying for control of the country. The Somali government, supported by the Somali National Army, US Africa Command, and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) are actively combating these groups.
ATMIS is expected to hand over security responsibilities to the SNA leadership by the end of the year.
– AXADLETM
