(09-12-23) MOGADISHU (HN) — Abukar Salah Mohamud Afrah, a former official with a significant background in business and education, faced trial today before the Court of First Instance of the Armed Forces. Afrah, a university graduate from Sudan, is known for his business ventures in Kenya, Turkey, and South Sudan. Previously, he served as the deputy commissioner of Hodan and Hamarweyne districts in the Banadir region.
The prosecution charges Afrah with collaborating with the Al-Shabaab militant group, particularly in orchestrating plots within Mogadishu. This case highlights the ongoing battle against insurgent infiltration in Somalia’s government. He is accused of facilitating the transport of Al-Shabaab members in and out of the city, allegedly using his government position as cover.
The case took a complex turn with the emergence of a voice recording on social media, in which Afrah purportedly expressed allegiance to Al-Shabaab. However, Afrah later claimed the recording was made under coercion after being abducted.
His defence team argues that Afrah’s actions were attempts at self-preservation, not indicative of support for Al-Shabaab. They further alleged that Mohamud was targeted due to his business activities in the city.
The session presided over by Judge Gen. Hassan Ali Nur Shute, concluded with the announcement that a verdict would be forthcoming from the Military Court.
Halqabsi News
