Galkayo Court Sentences Woman to Death for Killing 14-Year-Old Girl

By Mohamed Qaal - Reporter

Somalia, 24 November 2025 — The First Instance Court of Galkayo has sentenced Hodan Mahamud Diiriye, 34, to death after finding her guilty of killing 14-year-old Sabirin Saylan Abdulle, an orphan girl who was living with her when the tragic incident occurred.

The presiding judge, Mohamed Abdisalam, said the ruling was based on video evidence presented in court, the victim’s death certificate, witness testimonies, and the confession of the accused, who admitted before the court that she subjected the girl to severe physical abuse.

Abdiaziiz Nur Hashi, the head of the household where the victim lived, was sentenced to one year in prison and fined $500 after being found guilty of a lesser offence, while more serious charges against him were dismissed.

“The First Instance Court of Galkayo has sentenced Hodan Mahamuud Diiriye to death as retribution for the killing of the Sabirin Saylan Abdulle, while Abdiaziiz Nur Hashi has been sentenced to one year in prison and a fine of 500 US dollars,” the court chairman said.

The case first appeared before the court on 20 November, following public protests in Galkayo where residents demanded justice for the victim, prompting police to arrest the accused individuals.

The court stated that all parties retain the right to appeal the verdict if dissatisfied with the ruling.