MOGADISHU, Somalia — On Monday, Asho Abdullahi Mohamed, identified as a 14-year veteran of the Al-Shabaab militant group, appeared before the Court of Armed Forces of Somalia alongside approximately 10 other women linked to the group. These women, reportedly the wives of Al-Shabaab fighters, were apprehended in the streets of Mogadishu, hailing primarily from the Southwest state areas.
Court chairman Shuute directly interrogated the women, revealing that some among them were unaware of their husbands’ affiliations until after marriage. Notably, some of these young women were reportedly dispatched by their parents to join their militant husbands in the forest, a testament to the complex social dynamics at play.
Asho, the eldest among the accused, confessed to her involvement with Al-Shabaab while conducting business at the Bakaro market in Mogadishu. She disclosed earning $120 per month for her role in storing and transferring explosives. Her clandestine activities in the capital went unnoticed for 14 years until an Al-Shabaab bomber, who initially intended to carry out a suicide attack but later surrendered, exposed her involvement.
Further revelations in court indicated that Asho had married within the group and bore several children, some of whom are now involved with Al-Shabaab. Her husband reportedly holds a significant position within the organization.
The case continues to unfold, shedding light on the intricate network of Al-Shabaab and the roles individuals play within it, often under the radar in urban settings like Mogadishu.
HORN LIFE
