MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a decisive move against Al-Shabaab financing, the Benadir Regional Court in Somalia sentenced four individuals on Monday, with penalties ranging from fines to substantial prison terms.
Hassan Osman Aden received the harshest punishment, a 13-year prison sentence alongside a $20,000 fine, for his role in supporting Al-Shabaab financially.
Three women, identified as Fadumo Hassan Osman, Amina Abdullahi Abbabur, and Hasna Aweys Qasim, were each handed two-year jail terms for similar charges.
The verdicts, announced by court chairperson Salah Ali Mohamud, reflect Somalia’s resolve to dismantle the financial backbone of Al-Shabaab, a militant group with significant influence in the region.
These sentences are part of broader efforts by the Somali government to combat Al-Shabaab, targeting both the rural strongholds and urban operations of militant groups.
The judiciary’s actions aim to send a clear message about the consequences of engaging in or supporting terrorist activities financially.