Human rights organizations and embassies in Mogadishu have been called upon by Somaliland to investigate the arrest and treatment of youths accused of murdering Abdinasir Dahable, an aviation expert whose death has sparked significant controversy.
On Monday, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Ali Hassan Mohamed, known as ‘Ali Marehan,’ reported that the accused had been imprisoned under harsh conditions. Shortly after Dahable’s death in February 2024, multiple suspects were arrested, facing allegations of involvement in his murder.
A respected aviation professional, Dahable was discovered dead under suspicious circumstances in February 2024. This incident led to a heated exchange between Somaliland and the Somali government, with both sides trading accusations. Blaming the Somali government for failing to ensure Dahable’s safety, Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi previously expressed his concerns.
Revealing that Dahable had been tortured before his death, an autopsy released by Somaliland authorities intensified the call for justice and transparency in the investigation. Handling of the case by the Somali government has been criticized, with allegations of incompetence and corruption.
Concerns for safety led Somaliland to urge its citizens in Mogadishu to evacuate following the arrest of the suspects.
Forensic investigations, assisted by Turkish experts, found no evidence linking ten suspects to the crime, leading to their release by the Somali government in early May.
Denouncing the Somali government for its handling of the case, the breakaway Republic of Somaliland reiterated allegations of incompetence and corruption. “Hesitant to release or prosecute the accused, fearing failure and resorting to torture,” asserted Ali Marehan.
Foreign embassies and international organizations in Mogadishu have been appealed to by Marehan to investigate the conditions of the imprisoned youths and ensure a fair and transparent legal process.
