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Mogadishu, 7 November 2025 — The Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports has filed a formal complaint to the Office of the Attorney General accusing members of the Somali National Olympic Committee (GOS) of involvement in human trafficking.
In a statement, the ministry said it took the decision after preliminary information indicated possible involvement in human smuggling and administrative misconduct by some members of the committee.
“The Ministry is committed to protecting the integrity and ethics of Somali sports. Anyone who violates sports administration laws must be held accountable,” the statement read.
The officials named in the complaint are:
1. Ahmed Abdi Hassan (Wataac) – Chairman of the Somali National Olympic Committee
2. Duran Ahmed Farah – Deputy Chairman
3. Mohamed Abdow Haji – Secretary-General
4. Farah Ali Macalin – Assistant Secretary-General
The ministry said the move was part of efforts to uphold sports governance and the rule of law, as well as strengthen accountability within institutions under the government’s supervision.
However, Ahmed Abdi Hassan ‘Watac’ Chairman of the Somali National Olympic Committee, denied the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.
He challenged the ministry to present credible evidence and identify the individuals allegedly trafficked by the committee.
“These accusations are fabricated. If they claim certain individuals were trafficked, they should provide the dates and details.”
“What they’re doing is only meant to tarnish our reputation. We are ready to respond to the charges, but they must bring forward real evidence,” Wataac told Dawan Media.
On 2nd November, Youth and Sports Minister, Mohamed Abdulqadir Ali, suspended the chairman and deputy chairman of the Olympic Committee accusing them of gross misconduct.
However, the committee rejected the suspension, maintaining it is an independent body and not subject to ministerial authority.
The members accused the ministry of overstepping its legal powers and failing to prioritize the development of sports in Somalia.
