Somalia Army opens investigation into alleged torture of Prisoner in viral Video

The Command of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) has launched a preliminary investigation into allegations that members of the army abused a prisoner captured during an operation against Al-Shabaab militants.

The investigation follows the circulation of a video on social media appearing to show a young man being subjected to severe mistreatment while in custody. In the footage, a plastic bag is reportedly placed over the prisoner’s head, raising serious concerns over the treatment of detainees during military operations.

In a statement, the SNAF Command said it had initiated a preliminary investigation into the conduct of members of the Armed Forces involved in the incident and the circulation of the video.

“Such conduct, and any similar act, clearly contravenes the SNAF Code of Conduct, military regulations and the laws of armed conflict,” the command said.

The military leadership strongly warned its personnel against engaging in acts of abuse, stressing that members of the Armed Forces are required to comply with military regulations, human rights standards and the laws governing armed conflict.

The Command further stated that firm legal and military disciplinary action would be taken against any personnel found to have violated the laws of armed conflict, the rights of prisoners of war or human rights.

The alleged incident comes as Somali government forces, supported by local forces and international partners, continue military operations against Al-Shabaab in several parts of the country.

The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those responsible and determine whether disciplinary or legal measures should be taken.

Mustaqbal