Military court sentences Haramcad officer to death for Killing civilian in Mogadishu

The first instance court of the Somali Armed forces has sentenced a police officer to death by firing squad after finding him guilty of killing a civilian in Mogadishu earlier this year.

Private Police vonstable Bakar Abdiaziz Mohamed, a member of the elite Haramcad police unit, was convicted for the fatal shooting of Ali Iskow Daud, which took place in the Waaberi district of Banadir region on 28 June 2025.

During the trial, Bakar admitted to the incident but claimed the shooting was not intentional. However, prosecutors presented surveillance footage showing the officer fleeing the scene on a motorcycle commonly referred to as a “Fekon.” He was later apprehended in Abdiaziz district, as confirmed during court proceedings.

Delivering the verdict, Senior Lieutenant Colonel Hassan Ali Nur Shuute, the chief Judge of the Court, announced that the officer was sentenced to death in accordance with the principle of Qisaas—retribution under Islamic law—for the murder of the victim.

The court noted that the evidence presented, including video footage and testimonies, firmly established the officer’s guilt.

The ruling allows for an appeal. If Bakar’s legal team files for it, the case will proceed to the Military High Court, which will have the authority to uphold or overturn the lower court’s decision after reviewing the grounds of appeal.

The verdict is seen as a significant step in addressing accountability within Somalia’s security forces, amid ongoing concerns over excessive use of force and abuse by armed personnel.