In a rare and somber legal development, authorities in Puntland, a semi-autonomous region of Somalia, have carried out the execution of a woman convicted of murdering a 14-year-old domestic worker. This case marks a significant moment as it represents the first time in over a decade that a woman has faced the death penalty under retaliatory sentencing in the region.
Execution Under Islamic Legal Principles
Hodan Mohamud Diiriye, aged 34, was executed by firing squad on the morning of Tuesday, February 3, 2026, in the city of Galkayo. The execution followed a court ruling that found her guilty of beating to death Saabirin Saylaan, a teenager who had been employed as a domestic helper. Officials stated that the sentence was implemented under the Islamic legal principle of "qisas," which allows the family of a murder victim to demand execution instead of accepting financial compensation.
Faysal Sheikh Ali, the governor of Mudug region where the murder occurred, confirmed that members of both Saabirin's family and Diiriye's family were present during the execution. A decree in Mudug mandates the enforcement of Islamic law in such cases, underscoring the legal framework applied in this tragic incident.
Background of the Victim and Abuse
Saabirin Saylaan's life was marked by hardship from an early age. She was orphaned when both her parents died within a short period when she was just one year old. Initially cared for by her family, she was later taken in by Diiriye's family last year after her great-aunt agreed, as they needed home help. Tragically, this arrangement led to severe abuse.
During the police investigation, it was revealed that over the two months Saabirin lived with Diiriye, she endured "routine physical abuse," including beatings and torture. Evidence recovered from Diiriye's phone, including videos and audio recordings, documented repeated acts of violence. Some of this evidence was leaked to the public before the trial, though the source remains unclear.
Disturbing Evidence and Public Outcry
In one particularly chilling recording, Diiriye can be heard saying, "I'm enjoying your pain," highlighting the severity of the abuse. A post-mortem examination of Saabirin's body revealed multiple injuries and deep stab wounds consistent with prolonged violence, further corroborating the brutality of the crime.
As details of the investigation emerged, public anger escalated. Hundreds of women and young people marched in Galkayo, one of Puntland's largest cities, carrying signs that read "Justice for Saabirin" and calling on authorities to prosecute all those responsible. The case has touched a deep nerve in Somalia, where child abuse often goes unreported, especially within extended families.
Historical Context and Broader Implications
The Puntland authorities noted that this execution is the first of a woman in more than 10 years under a retaliatory sentence. The last known execution of a woman occurred in 2013, when 13 members of the Islamist militant group al-Shabab, including one woman, were executed by firing squad for their involvement in the killing of a prominent Islamic scholar.
In the wake of this case, activists, elders, and community leaders have called for greater accountability and stronger protections for children and domestic workers, who are often vulnerable to abuse. The execution has sparked renewed discussions on child welfare and legal reforms in the region, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
