Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s military court on Wednesday carried out the execution of two convicted Al-Shabaab members, in what officials described as a decisive step in the nation’s ongoing war against terrorism.
The two men, identified as Saleebaan Hussein Noor Cali and C/qaadir Abuukar Axmed, were executed by firing squad after the court found them guilty of orchestrating and participating in a series of deadly attacks in Mogadishu, including targeted assassinations.
According to court officials, the executions mark the seventh and eighth Al-Shabaab militants put to death this month, underscoring what authorities say is the government’s determination to enforce justice and deter further insurgent activity.
Military court spokesperson Colonel Hassan Ali Nur told reporters the move represents “a bold step demonstrating the country’s commitment to eradicating terror and restoring security amid persistent threats.”
Somalia has witnessed a surge in extremist violence in recent months, with Al-Shabaab targeting civilians, security personnel, and government officials in its bid to destabilize the capital and other regions.
Security experts say the executions signal a tougher stance by the state against insurgents accused of carrying out assassinations, roadside bombings, and hotel attacks that have claimed hundreds of lives.
Families of victims welcomed the verdict, while human rights advocates have urged caution, stressing the need for transparent legal processes even in cases involving terror suspects. Nonetheless, government officials argue that swift enforcement of justice is necessary to weaken Al-Shabaab’s operational networks and reassure the public.
The executions come as Somalia intensifies military operations against the militant group in southern and central regions, where joint Somali and allied forces have recently recaptured several strategic villages.
For a nation scarred by decades of conflict, the government’s crackdown represents both a show of force and a message: Somalia will not relent in its fight to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s grip on security and governance.
