The Governor of Mudug region, Feisal Abdullah Sheikh alias Jifojabsade has dismissed claims of mistreatment of traders from South West State who were reportedly detained in Galkacyo.
The allegations surfaced on social media, showing the traders with their hands and feet bound
Feisal clarified that the traders consented to their detention as part of a communal agreement to raise a blood money payment for a man killed 19 years ago, for which the community of the traders is held responsible.
He emphasized that the situation was misinterpreted and that the traders were not victims of abuse as alleged.
“The authorities have not addressed the murder from 19 years ago, nor have they paid the compensation money. The traders, in solidarity with their community, chose to bind themselves and take photos to share on WhatsApp, urging for the blood money to be collected,” he stated.
He expressed disappointment that the incident had been politicized instead of focusing on the communal effort to gather the necessary funds for compensation.
The governor emphasized the importance of resolving the longstanding issue rather than using it for political gain.
Several lawmakers from the South West State criticized the detention of the traders as illegal, calling for accountability and fairness in how such matters are handled.
The situation remains tense, with calls for dialogue and resolution continuing
Mustaqbal
