Justice a year after as Somali child rapists shot by firing squad

Justice a year after as Somali child rapists killed by firing squad

One year after they perpetrated the ignoble act of gangraping and killing a twelve-year old, Aisha Ilyaas Aden, the two rapists have been shot dead by firing squad.

Two of those found guilty – Abdifatah Abdirahman Warsame and Abdishakur Mohamed Dige – were shot at a public square in Bossasso town on Tuesday morning, the Garowe Online news website reported.

A third man, Abdisalam Abdirahman Warsame, the brother of Abdifatah, was spared despite also being sentenced to death.

In February, 2019, the rape and death of Aisha Ilyaas Aden caused an uproar across Somalia

Aisha Ilyaas Aden was abducted, gang raped and killed near her home in Galkayo, in the semi-autonomous region of Puntland, in February 2019.

The case caused uproar and sparked demonstrations across the country.

Ten suspects were initially arrested but the regional High Court found three of them guilty in May.

Prosecutors said they relied on DNA evidence for the first time to convict them.

Aisha’s father, Ilyas Aden, has told Puntland State TV that he requested the court postpone Abdisalam’s execution for 10 days until his case is re-assessed.

“This execution will serve as a strong lesson and the Somali girls will be safe,” Mr Aden said.

Activists and campaign groups say rape and sexual abuse have become more common in Somalia in recent years.