MOGADISHU – The Banaadir Regional Court in Mogadishu has commenced hearings against several former government officials charged with embezzlement of public funds.

According to Somali National News Agency, the cases involve significant amounts allegedly stolen from government budgets and revenues.

Details of the Corruption Charges

Among those on trial is Mohamed Adan Koofi, former Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Agency, accused of embezzling 4 million dollars and facing additional charges by the Office of the Attorney General. Another defendant, Abdulqadir Cilmi Ali, also a former Director General of the same agency, is charged with crime involvement, negligence, and suspected embezzlement of 5,327,355 dollars. Osman Hassan Cosoble, Abdikafi Hassan Mohamed, and Muxiyadiin Hassan Jurus Saabeey, former officials in the Ministry of Finance, are accused of diverting 20 million dollars of public funds.

Anticipated Court Verdicts

The court is expected to announce its verdicts soon. These trials are part of the Somali government’s ongoing efforts to address corruption and enhance accountability in public administration.