Mogadishu, Somalia – Somali Police Commissioner Brigadier General Asad Osman Abdullahi on Wednesday evening met with an elderly man and woman who were physically assaulted by members of the security forces earlier this week. The meeting was both an act of solidarity and a signal of accountability as the police moved swiftly to address public outrage over the incident.
According to police officials, the couple had been attacked during a confrontation involving security personnel, sparking widespread condemnation on social media and from community leaders. Brig. Gen. Osman personally assured the victims that justice would be pursued and emphasized the force’s commitment to protecting, not harming, citizens.
Authorities confirmed that the officers implicated in the assault have been arrested and will face legal proceedings. The commissioner said the swift action was necessary to restore public confidence in law enforcement at a time when security institutions are under pressure to maintain discipline and respect for human rights.
The incident has reignited debate over police reform and accountability in Somalia, where reports of heavy-handedness by security officers often fuel tension between authorities and local communities. Rights groups have repeatedly urged the government to strengthen oversight mechanisms and ensure that such abuses are not tolerated.
For the victims, Wednesday’s meeting offered reassurance, but many Somalis see it as a test case for whether justice can truly prevail when those in uniform commit abuses.