News
September 22, 2025
SNA soldier kills civilian driver in Karaan checkpoint dispute
Mogadishu (HOL) — A Somali government soldier shot and killed a civilian driver at a checkpoint in Mogadishu’s Karaan district on Monday, witnesses said, in an incident that has fueled anger over alleged extortion and abuse by security forces.
**Mogadishu, Somalia** – A civilian driver was fatally shot by a Somali National Army (SNA) soldier at a checkpoint in the Karaan district of Mogadishu on Monday, according to eyewitness accounts. The tragic incident has ignited widespread outrage and renewed concerns regarding alleged extortion and misconduct by security personnel at checkpoints throughout the city.
The shooting occurred following a dispute between the driver and the soldier manning the checkpoint. While the exact details leading up to the fatal shot remain unclear, witnesses reported a heated exchange preceding the gunfire. The incident highlights the persistent tension between civilians and security forces in Mogadishu, particularly at the numerous checkpoints established across the capital.
Checkpoints, intended to bolster security and prevent the movement of weapons and explosives, have become a frequent source of complaints from residents. Allegations of extortion, arbitrary detention, and physical abuse by soldiers at these checkpoints are common, fostering resentment and distrust within the community. Many residents claim that soldiers routinely demand bribes from drivers, holding them up and creating significant delays if they refuse to pay.
The death of the civilian driver is likely to exacerbate these existing grievances. The incident has already sparked condemnation from local community leaders and civil society organizations, who are calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into the shooting. They are also demanding that the government take decisive action to address the systemic issues of corruption and abuse within the security forces.
“This is an unacceptable tragedy,” said a local elder from the Karaan district, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons. “We need accountability for this senseless killing and a commitment from the government to ensure that our security forces protect, not prey upon, the citizens they are sworn to serve.”
The Somali government has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, the pressure is mounting for a swift and transparent response to address the public’s concerns and prevent further escalation of tensions. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Somalia as it strives to build a stable and secure environment for its citizens.
The shooting occurred following a dispute between the driver and the soldier manning the checkpoint. While the exact details leading up to the fatal shot remain unclear, witnesses reported a heated exchange preceding the gunfire. The incident highlights the persistent tension between civilians and security forces in Mogadishu, particularly at the numerous checkpoints established across the capital.
Checkpoints, intended to bolster security and prevent the movement of weapons and explosives, have become a frequent source of complaints from residents. Allegations of extortion, arbitrary detention, and physical abuse by soldiers at these checkpoints are common, fostering resentment and distrust within the community. Many residents claim that soldiers routinely demand bribes from drivers, holding them up and creating significant delays if they refuse to pay.
The death of the civilian driver is likely to exacerbate these existing grievances. The incident has already sparked condemnation from local community leaders and civil society organizations, who are calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into the shooting. They are also demanding that the government take decisive action to address the systemic issues of corruption and abuse within the security forces.
“This is an unacceptable tragedy,” said a local elder from the Karaan district, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons. “We need accountability for this senseless killing and a commitment from the government to ensure that our security forces protect, not prey upon, the citizens they are sworn to serve.”
The Somali government has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, the pressure is mounting for a swift and transparent response to address the public’s concerns and prevent further escalation of tensions. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Somalia as it strives to build a stable and secure environment for its citizens.
Category:
Politics