Saturday September 12, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali National Army has opened an investigation into the killing of one of its soldiers, Ahmed Shire Hussein, who was reportedly killed in El Baraf district in Middle Shabelle region while on leave from duty.
In a statement Friday, the Army Command confirmed that Shire was a member of the Somali National Army serving his country, but did not provide details about the circumstances of the killing or those responsible.
“The military will take lawful measures to address the incident and hold accountable anyone involved,” the statement said.
The Army Command also emphasized the importance of protecting the lives, dignity and rights of Somali soldiers, describing the military as a national institution serving the Somali public.
Shire and two other soldiers were reportedly ambushed while on leave and travelling to Hiiraan region to visit their families. The armed group captured all three soldiers but later released two of them.
A video recorded while Shire was in captivity showed him pleading for his life. In the video, he said he was sick, hungry and on his way to visit his family.
“Maternal uncles, don’t kill me. I am on my way to my family in good health,” Shire said in the video.
The killing has sparked widespread outrage among Somalis, with many condemning the act as barbaric and calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.
