Somalia police arrest five suspects over rape case in Las Anod town

Monday May 25, 2026

Las Anod (HOL) — Police in Somalia’s Northeastern State on Sunday arrested five suspects in connection with the rape of a woman in Las Anod and are searching for a sixth person.

Sool regional police said the assault took place May 23, 2026. Officers arrested the five suspects during a follow-up operation after the case was reported.

Police said the victim is a woman from Northeastern Somalia. They did not release her name, in line with standard practice in sexual assault cases.

Investigations are continuing, and police said a full report will be released once the inquiry is completed. The suspects in custody will be transferred to judicial authorities for legal proceedings, according to the statement.

Police also warned the public against spreading unverified claims on social media, saying information not issued by official sources could interfere with the investigation, the justice process and security operations.

The case has renewed concern over sexual violence in Las Anod. A year ago, two sisters were gang-raped in the city, a case that rights activists and residents say has still not delivered full justice.

Sexual violence remains underreported in many parts of Somalia because of stigma, fear of retaliation and weak access to justice. Rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger investigations, survivor protection and accountability in gender-based violence cases.