Somalia’s Ministry Condemns Brutal Assault on Woman and Child in Puntland
The Federal Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development has strongly condemned a heinous act of violence committed against a Somali woman and her child in Puntland’s Sanaa region, describing the incident as inhumane and a gross violation of human dignity and children’s rights.
In a statement issued from Mogadishu, the ministry expressed deep outrage over the attack on Samira Cabdikariim Maxamuud, an 11-year-old girl, who was reportedly assaulted in Xingalool, a locality under the Sanaa region in Puntland, on October 30, 2025.
The ministry called the act barbaric and vowed to ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.
“This shocking incident is an affront to our collective humanity. The Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development condemns in the strongest terms any form of abuse targeting women and children, who deserve protection and dignity under Somali law,” the statement read.
The Ministry commended the Puntland authorities and police forces for swiftly responding to the case and arresting suspects believed to be behind the attack. It also urged judicial authorities to ensure the perpetrators face full accountability without leniency.
The ministry reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence, emphasizing the need for community vigilance and legal enforcement to protect vulnerable groups, especially women and children.
“The Ministry stands in solidarity with the victim’s family and the people of Puntland. We call on all Somalis to unite in condemning violence against women and children and to support efforts that uphold justice and human rights,” the ministry added.
The Ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to working with federal member states, civil society organizations, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen the protection framework for women and children across the country.
The statement concluded with a pledge to continue raising awareness on gender-based violence and to advocate for stronger mechanisms that ensure such crimes are prevented and punished according to the law.
