BELEDWEYNE, Somalia — Police have arrested the final two suspects in a gang rape case that ignited public fury across Somalia after a video linked to the assault circulated widely on social media, authorities said Friday.
In a statement, Beledweyne police identified the men as Abdishakur Hassan Ibrahim and Mohamed Awale Omar. They were the last at large in the case, which previously saw three other suspects detained, police said. The arrests bring all identified suspects into custody as the investigation proceeds.
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The case drew national attention after footage involving a young girl was shared online, triggering condemnation and renewed calls for accountability and stronger protections for survivors of sexual violence. Authorities did not disclose details about the victim, citing the need to protect her identity.
Police said the suspects will be presented before a competent court to face charges and emphasized that due legal procedures will be followed. They did not release a timeline for initial court appearances or further investigative steps.
- Police say all identified suspects in the Beledweyne gang rape case are now in custody.
- The newly arrested men were named as Abdishakur Hassan Ibrahim and Mohamed Awale Omar.
- Authorities withheld details about the victim to protect her identity.
- The case gained national attention after video linked to the assault spread online.
- Police pledged to bring the suspects before a court and follow due process.
The Beledweyne District Police Station urged residents — particularly those facing abuse or hardship — to report incidents directly to law enforcement. “We call on all citizens to come forward with their complaints so that legal action can be taken and people’s rights are protected,” the statement said.
Officials also appealed for cooperation with investigators, saying community reports and witness testimony are often pivotal in bringing cases to court. Police did not announce any additional suspects or confirm whether further arrests are expected.
Rights advocates say sexual violence remains a serious and underreported problem in Somalia, where survivors frequently face stigma, limited access to services and uneven enforcement. The outcry over the Beledweyne video has intensified public debate about prevention, survivor support and accountability, underscoring demands for stronger policing, faster case handling and survivor-centered care.
Authorities urged residents to use official reporting channels for abuse and to avoid actions that could compromise investigations or expose survivors to further harm. Police reiterated that complaints will be handled through legal procedures intended to safeguard both victims and the integrity of the judicial process.
As the suspects await their first court appearances, police said updates will be provided through official statements. Community leaders and rights groups have called for a transparent judicial process and swift, fair adjudication to reinforce public trust.
Friday February 6, 2026
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
