Somali Military Court Chief: “Abdi Wabiir’s Case Is Under Investigation, and He Is in Safe Custody”

The Chairman of the First Degree Court of the Somali Armed Forces, Colonel Hassan Ali Nur Shuute, has spoken about the arrest of Abdi Mohamed Suubiye, commonly known as Abdi Wabiir, a member of the organised local forces known as Macawisley in Ceel Cali Ahmed, Middle Shabelle region.

Abdi Wabiir was reportedly detained following the circulation of a video featuring him on social media, allegedly filmed by Al-Shabaab group. However, he later addressed the situation, claiming that he had fallen into their hands but managed to escape through a strategic maneuver.

During a visit to the frontlines, where both the Somali National Army Commander and the Military Court Chairman were present, Abdi Wabiir was taken into custody for further investigation.

Speaking to members of the local Macawiisley militia, Chairman Shuute reassured them that an inquiry was ongoing and that the results would be made public once a decision was reached.

“Abdi Wabiir has been one of us—fighting alongside us and resisting the enemy’s oppression. He remains one of us until proven otherwise. The investigation is ongoing, and if he turns out to be the hero we know him to be, then he will be honored as such. But if his actions suggest otherwise, he will be held accountable accordingly,” said Colonel Shuute.

Abdi Wabiir first appeared on social media on February 21, stating that he and his fellow fighters had engaged in an intense battle against Al-Shabaab for several hours.

However, a subsequent video showed him among Al-Shabaab fighters. On February 27, he appeared again, claiming that he had been captured but had managed to escape through a tactical strategy.

Authorities are now investigating the circumstances of his capture and escape to determine the full truth behind his ordeal.