MOGADISHU — Somali police have arrested a government soldier suspected of killing a young motorcycle taxi driver in Mogadishu’s Dayniile district, an incident that has sparked public concern and renewed calls for accountability within the security forces.
The suspect, identified as Second Lieutenant Abdullahi Ahmed Geedi, was taken into custody by officers at the Dayniile District Police Station on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. He is accused of fatally shooting Abdirisaq Abuukar Mohamed, a civilian Bajaj operator, on Monday night in the same district.
In a statement, the Banadir Regional Police Command confirmed the arrest and said the suspect will be transferred to the appropriate court to face legal proceedings. Police officials noted that investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and motive behind the killing.
Family members said Abdirisaq’s body has not yet been buried and remains in Firinjeer. A relative of the victim, Yusuf, told local media that Abdirisaq and his wife, Aa’isha Abdi, had been preparing to travel to the United States after winning the U.S. diversity visa lottery. According to the family, their visa process was nearly complete, with only an interview in Bangkok, Thailand remaining.
Motorcycle taxi drivers, commonly known as Bajaj operators, are among the most vulnerable workers in Mogadishu, often navigating insecurity, checkpoints, and tense encounters with armed personnel to earn a daily living. Incidents involving civilians and security forces have repeatedly triggered public anger, with communities demanding justice and an end to impunity.
Police commanders said the arrest reflects an effort to reassure the public that no one is above the law, including members of the security services. Authorities also urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement as the case proceeds through the judicial system.
