Monday Dec 30, 2024 {HMC} Somali Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre on Monday pledged swift justice for those responsible for the killing of six Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers in the El-Baraf district of Middle Shabelle region, describing the act as “monstrous” and “unprecedented” in Somali culture.
“They are cowards who killed the sons of the nation, and they are a disgrace that we have not seen before. They will be brought to justice immediately,” Barre said during remarks in Mogadishu. He urged the public to cooperate with security agencies to apprehend those responsible.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the case falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government and Hirshabelle State, rejecting the possibility of resolving the matter through familial or tribal negotiations. He stated that the attack is distinct from the ongoing clan conflicts in the country and warrants strict legal punishment.
The ambush occurred last week as the soldiers, members of the Hawadle clan, were traveling home to Hiiraan while on leave. Local reports indicate the militia fighters, in a revenge attack, targeted and executed the soldiers by shooting them in the head.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from Somali leaders, including former and current presidents, religious clerics, and community elders. Calls for peace have intensified as clan conflicts escalate in multiple regions, including Middle and Lower Shabelle, Mudug, Galgadud, and Sanaag, where over 100 people have reportedly been killed in recent weeks.
Source Hiiraan onlline
