MOGADISHU — The Somali Military Court has heard harrowing details of a violent crime spree allegedly committed by two friends in the Dayniile district, as prosecutors push for the maximum penalty in a case that has gripped the capital.
Defendants Cabdi Calas Cabdullaahi Buris, known as "Bucis," and Cabdullaahi Cabdi Xassan Buraash Ole, referred to as "Buraash Ulle," appeared before the court to answer charges of murder and armed robbery stemming from incidents in October 2020. The primary victim, Mawliid Daa'uud Cabdulle, was allegedly killed on October 3, 2020, in the Dabakaayo neighborhood of Dayniile during a robbery gone fatal.
According to court proceedings, Buris allegedly shot the victim while his accomplice Buraash assisted in the crime. The pair reportedly covered the body with a cloth to conceal the killing before fleeing the scene. The murder occurred during an attempted mobile phone robbery, with the defendants allegedly taking the victim's device at gunpoint.
The violence did not end there. Prosecutors allege that on the night following the murder, October 4, 2020, the duo embarked on a second crime spree, robbing four Somali citizens at gunpoint in the same district, stealing mobile phones and other valuables.
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The case against the defendants includes testimony from an eyewitness, Isaaq Maxamuud Cali, who reportedly identified Buris as the shooter. The prosecution also presented forensic evidence, including a medical report confirming the cause of death as gunshot wounds from a weapon allegedly carried by Buris.
Deputy Prosecutor Hassan Tarsan argued forcefully for conviction, citing Articles 434 and 90 of the Somali Penal Code and Article 4 of the Armed Forces Law. "The evidence clearly demonstrates that the first defendant committed premeditated murder," Tarsan told the court, requesting the death penalty for Buris and conviction for Buraash as an accomplice who provided material support and concealment.
However, defense attorneys mounted a vigorous challenge, arguing that the prosecution failed to meet evidentiary standards under Articles 110 and 116 of the Somali Criminal Procedure Code. Lawyers for both defendants pointed to the absence of direct witnesses placing their clients at the robbery scenes and questioned the chain of custody for physical evidence.
"There is no witness who appeared before this court claiming my client robbed them," argued the attorney for Buraash, noting that despite 108 days of detention, investigators failed to produce concrete evidence linking the defendants to the crimes. The defense requested immediate acquittal and release under Article 122 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
The court heard that Buris was arrested at his home in Dayniile while allegedly preparing for another robbery, whereas Buraash was apprehended later during a separate security operation. Both men reportedly knew the victim as they were from the same neighborhood.
Presiding Judge Gaashaanle Sare Xasan Cali Nuur Shuute adjourned the proceedings after hearing arguments from both sides. The court is expected to deliver its verdict following deliberation on the evidence presented, which includes witness testimony, forensic reports, and recovered items allegedly taken from the victims.
The case highlights ongoing security challenges in Mogadishu's outskirts, where armed robbery and violent crime continue to affect residents despite improved security measures in the capital's central districts.