GALKA’YO (Kaab TV) – The Court of First Instance in Puntland’s Mudug region today sentenced Hodan Mohamud Diriye to death after she was found guilty of murdering 14-year-old Sabirin Saylaan, who had been living in her household.
The court’s ruling followed a hearing that lasted several hours and was broadcast live on social media. The court also sentenced Hodan’s 65-year-old husband to one year in prison and a $500 fine after finding him complicit in the crime.
Although Hodan Mohamud told the court she did not kill Sabirin, she admitted to routinely torturing the girl. The court stated that the evidence presented clearly showed she was responsible for the murder.
The defendants were granted one month to file an appeal. The lawyer representing them said he was dissatisfied with the verdict and intends to appeal Hodan’s sentence.
The body of the deceased Sabirin, who has not yet been buried, is expected to be handed over to her relatives this afternoon for burial.
Sabirin’s killing sparked protests in Galkayo that resulted in one death and significant property damage.