Military Court Sentences Four over Espionage, Clears One

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: A military court has sentenced four people to prison on charges linked to espionage and assisting a militant group, while acquitting a fifth due to lack of evidence.

According to court officials, Cabdisalaam Maxamed Xasan, also known as “Aamusane,” was sentenced to 10 years in prison after being found guilty of involvement in intelligence and operational activities tied to Al-Shabaab.

Prosecutors said he conducted surveillance on government facilities and key locations in Mogadishu and gathered intelligence used in planned attacks, including during a high-profile visit by Somali boxer Ramla Ali.

The court also sentenced Cabdinaasir Cumar Axmed Subeyr to two years in prison, while Faadumo Cismaan Subeyr Cali and Leylo Seef Faarax Axmed each received one-year sentences for security-related offences, including harbouring suspects.

However, Cabdullahi Cusmaan Maxamed was acquitted and released after the court found insufficient evidence to prove he had resumed involvement with the group.

Officials said the case followed an extensive investigation into alleged militant support networks operating in Mogadishu.

Abdisalaam Maalin, director of media and public relations for the military court, confirmed the ruling, saying it reflected efforts to dismantle militant networks and strengthen security.