HARGEISA, Somalia — The Somaliland police have reported a significant spike in criminal activities for the year 2024, totaling 28,418 incidents, according to a report submitted to President Muse Bihi Abdi. The detailed analysis, presented by the police operations commander, reflects the complexities of law enforcement in this self-declared independent region.
The report’s breakdown indicates:
- 4,842 cases were successfully investigated and resolved.
- 10,840 incidents were settled, suggesting possible alternative dispute resolutions outside the court system.
- 860 cases are still under active investigation.
- 11,876 cases have been processed through the courts.
- A notable 10,676 individuals received sentencing; however, the specifics of these sentences remain undisclosed.
Among the troubling statistics are:
- Homicides: 68 people were murdered, with 62 suspects in custody and 6 still evading capture.
- Sexual Assault: There were 321 reported rapes, with 343 individuals accused. Approximately 270 have been arrested, while 73 remain at large, including those implicated in 10 gang rapes.
- Road Safety: The year saw 7,18 traffic accidents, leading to 188 deaths, 4,454 injuries, and extensive damage to property, including vehicles and animals.
- Child Welfare: The police also documented 20 cases of child abandonment, with half of those children placed in care facilities.
The police commander highlighted the ongoing efforts to tackle these issues, suggesting improvements in community policing, legislative changes, and infrastructure development to address the high rate of road accidents.
This report not only reveals the extent of crime within Somaliland but also demonstrates the government’s transparency by sharing comprehensive crime data with the public. It calls for urgent legislative and community-based measures to reduce crime and enhance security across the region.
HORN LIFE
