According to eyewitnesses, the order to arrest and handcuff the women was issued by the Commander of Afgooye Police Station, Ali Rooble, who has previously been linked to repeated acts of abuse against women in the district. Even more shocking is the fact that the women were detained in the same space with men — including minors — which is a clear violation of basic policing ethics and human dignity.

This kind of brutality against women is unacceptable and erodes the trust between security institutions and the public. It also severely damages the image of the security sector and violates the fundamental rights guaranteed under Somali law and international human rights conventions.

I urgently call on the South West State Administration and the Somali Police Force Headquarters to intervene immediately, ensure the safety of the women affected, and hold those responsible for these violations accountable. Justice must be served, and women should never again be subjected to such degrading treatment for exercising their right to speak.