Family Ministry Calls for Swift Justice Over Assault on Young Woman

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals accused of carrying out a violent assault against a young Somali woman, after footage of the incident circulated widely on social media and sparked public outrage.

In a statement, the ministry strongly condemned what it described as a grave violation of the victim’s dignity, rights and personal safety, urging law enforcement agencies to swiftly identify and apprehend those responsible.

“The perpetrators of this act must be brought before the relevant judicial authorities without delay so that justice can take its course,” the ministry said.

Family and Human Rights Development Minister Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi described the incident as a serious crime that contravenes Islamic values, Somali cultural norms and the fundamental rights and dignity of citizens.

She said the assault had shocked many Somalis and underscored the need for collective action against violence and abuse, particularly crimes targeting women and girls.

The ministry called on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the suspects and ensure they are held accountable through the country’s justice system.

It also appealed to members of the public, including relatives and anyone with information about those involved, to cooperate with authorities and assist investigations.

The incident has reignited debate in Somalia over violence against women, accountability and the role of social media in exposing abuses. Rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement of laws protecting women and girls, arguing that public confidence in the justice system depends on the effective prosecution of perpetrators.

While authorities did not provide further details about the case, the circulation of videos related to the incident has prompted widespread condemnation from members of the public, civil society groups and government officials.

The ministry said protecting the dignity and rights of women remained a national responsibility and stressed that those responsible for such crimes should not be shielded from justice.