Authorities in Puntland, Somalia, have executed Hodan Mohamud Diiriye, who was convicted of murdering Saabirin Saylaan, a 14-year-old girl who worked as a domestic helper in her home.
Diiriye was executed by firing squad on Tuesday in Galkayo, after a court found her guilty of beating the teenager to death.
The case is considered rare, as it is one of the few instances in which the death penalty has been carried out against a woman in the region.
Saabirin’s death in November sparked outrage in Galkayo, triggering protests and renewed calls for stronger child protection.
Hundreds of women and youths reportedly marched through the city carrying placards demanding justice and accountability.
Officials said the execution was carried out under qisas, an Islamic legal principle that allows the family of a murder victim to demand the death penalty instead of accepting financial compensation.
Puntland authorities said this was the first retaliatory execution of a woman in more than a decade, with the last known case recorded in 2013 when a female member of the militant group al-Shabab was executed alongside others.
Investigations revealed that Saabirin had been orphaned as a baby and was placed with Diiriye’s family by her great-aunt.
Police said she suffered routine abuse during the two months she lived with the family.
Evidence recovered from Diiriye’s phone including audio recordings and videos reportedly documented repeated violence.
A post-mortem examination confirmed multiple injuries and deep stab wounds consistent with prolonged torture.
The incident has intensified calls from activists, elders, and community leaders for improved protection for children and domestic workers across Somalia
