Sunday, 31 May 2026 {HMC}Â Two Ethiopian nationals were brought before the Military Court after being arrested by Somali intelligence forces during a planned security operation in the South West State, particularly in the city of Baidoa.
The Military Court heard charges against the two suspects, which included allegations related to their participation in armed conflicts, military training they allegedly received, and details concerning their entry into Somalia.
The suspects were identified as Hamza Ibrahim Ali (Abu Irshaad) and Nasri Abdirahman Ali (Abu Safiya). According to court records, both men were born in Harar, Ethiopia, and are fluent in the Somali language.
The Office of the Military Prosecutor requested that the court impose a sentence on the two defendants, arguing that such a ruling would serve as a deterrent to others seeking to join Al-Shabaab and help address the security threat they allegedly pose.
The defense lawyer representing the two suspects told the court that his clients deny the charges against them, describing the accusations as serious and unproven. He urged the court to repatriate them to their home country so they could reunite with their families.
The First Instance Military Court stated that it will issue a ruling after reviewing the arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense, and that its decision will be announced at a later date.
