A woman who earned her living selling fish was shot dead on Wednesday night in the Wedow area on the outskirts of Mogadishu, after a dispute reportedly erupted over a small tax payment demanded by a government soldier.

According to local residents, the woman operated a modest fish stall that provided income for her family. Witnesses said a soldier believed to be attached to a government revenue collection unit approached her and demanded a tax payment of 25 cents.

Residents alleged that the woman explained she did not have the money at the time and asked the soldier to return later.

The disagreement reportedly escalated, and the soldier allegedly opened fire on the woman, killing her at the scene. The suspect is said to have fled immediately after the shooting.

Authorities have not yet issued an official statement confirming the circumstances of the incident or whether the accused soldier has been arrested.

The victim’s body was taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Mogadishu, where further investigations are expected to be carried out.

Family members and residents have called for a transparent inquiry and swift justice.

The killing has sparked outrage among residents of Wedow and surrounding communities, who say the incident highlights growing concerns about the conduct of some security personnel toward civilians.

Community elders and local leaders have urged the government to hold anyone responsible accountable under the law.

The incident comes at a time when concerns over accountability and civilian protection remain a sensitive issue in Somalia.

Human rights groups and civil society organizations have repeatedly called for stronger oversight of security forces and greater action against abuses committed against civilians.

Residents say the slain woman was known in the area as a hardworking trader who depended on the fish business to support her household.

Her death has renewed calls for reforms in local revenue collection practices and for measures to prevent armed personnel from using force against unarmed civilians.

Authorities are expected to provide further details as investigations continue, while the victim’s family and local residents await answers over the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.