Galkayo, (WDN) — A disturbing incident has unfolded in the Puntland city of Galkayo, where a group of innocent men originating from South West State have been reportedly abducted and unlawfully detained under inhumane conditions. These individuals, including respected community elders and traders, were seized without any legal warrants and are being held incommunicado, sparking widespread condemnation.
Eyewitnesses and local sources reveal that these men were forcibly taken from their homes and business premises. The detainees had been living and conducting lawful trade within Puntland, seeking safety and economic opportunity in a region that is part of Somalia’s federal framework.
The justification for their detention appears rooted in accusations linking them to a decades-old killing in southern Somalia. No formal charges have been brought forward, and the detainees have been denied access to legal counsel or any form of judicial process.
What makes this case especially egregious is that such a blatant violation of human rights has reportedly taken place under the direct watch of Puntland’s state institutions—including the police, judiciary, and local councils—who bear the responsibility to protect citizens regardless of their clan or regional origins.
These actions represent a grave betrayal of Somalia’s federal principles and the rule of law. Somali citizens, many of whom fled insecurity in their own regions, are being subjected to political and clan-based persecution instead of protection. The fact that taxpayers and community leaders are being targeted by the very authorities meant to safeguard their rights reveals a deep crisis of governance and justice in Puntland.
The incident also highlights a troubling pattern of discrimination against South West State traders and elders operating in Puntland. Historically, Somali regions have maintained close social and economic ties; during the severe drought of 1974–75, many Puntland residents were welcomed and settled in South West State without incident.
Community leaders and human rights advocates are urgently calling for the immediate release of the detainees and demand that Puntland’s authorities uphold the dignity and rights of all Somali citizens. They further urge the Puntland President Deni, to intervene decisively to halt these abuses and restore faith in the justice system.
“The unlawful seizure and prolonged detention of these men under such harsh conditions is a dark stain on our collective humanity,” said one community elder. “It is unacceptable that this hijacking of people’s freedom occurs openly, with the complicity of those sworn to protect us.”
As this story unfolds, the international community and Somali civil society are watching closely, demanding accountability and justice for those wrongfully imprisoned in Galkayo.
WardheerNews