MOGADISHU, (HAN) – The Somali Police Force has launched a specialized training program for female officers to enhance their skills in responding to cases of violence against women and children. The program, overseen by the Chief of Police, Major General Asad Osman Abdullahi, focuses on equipping officers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to handle sensitive cases involving abuse, domestic violence, and child exploitation.
During the training, participants were taught approaches for victim-centered care, legal procedures, and effective reporting mechanisms to ensure that survivors of abuse receive proper support. The initiative also emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of victims and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable under Somali law.
The trained officers will be deployed to strategic police stations and critical response units across Mogadishu and other regions, where they will serve as the primary contact points for reporting and managing cases of gender-based and child-related violence.
Speaking at the conclusion of the program, Major General Asad Osman Abdullahi said, “Empowering our female officers with specialized skills is crucial for creating a safe environment for women and children. Their role in protecting vulnerable members of our society cannot be overstated.”
This initiative is part of a broader effort by Somali authorities to improve law enforcement responses to gender-based violence, which remains a significant challenge in the country. By integrating trained female officers into frontline roles, the Somali Police Force aims to foster trust with communities and encourage more victims to come forward.