By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Security forces in Somalia’s Southwest State have arrested four suspects in connection with the brutal killing of an elderly man in the Wanlaweyn district of the Lower Shabelle region, officials confirmed on Saturday.
According to local authorities, the victim — reportedly suffering from a mental illness — was burned to death in the village of Dudumaaye amid a clan-related dispute. Officials described the incident as one of the most horrifying acts of violence witnessed in recent years, involving an estimated 20 individuals, both armed and unarmed.
“The operation to bring all those responsible to justice is ongoing,” said Wanlaweyn District Commissioner Abdikadir Mohamed Abdillahi. “Our security forces are still tracking down other suspects believed to have participated in the killing.”
A disturbing video circulating on social media capturing the incident has sparked widespread outrage across Somalia, prompting strong condemnation from the public and human rights groups. Many have described the act as a shocking display of cruelty and lawlessness.
Community elders, activists, and civil society organizations have urged the Federal Government of Somalia, the Southwest regional administration, and relevant security agencies to act swiftly to ensure justice for the victim and to curb the growing wave of clan-based violence.
The killing has reignited concerns over revenge attacks and inter-clan disputes that continue to destabilize southern and central Somalia, where weak governance, the proliferation of small arms, and longstanding rivalries have repeatedly fueled cycles of violence.
Human rights advocates are calling for a thorough investigation, the prosecution of all perpetrators, and strengthened community reconciliation initiatives to prevent similar atrocities in the future.
