Turkey slams International Arrest Warrant on Somali President’s Son in Fatal Istanbul Collision

Turkey has issued an international arrest warrant for Mohammed Hassan Cheikh Mohamud, the son of Somalia’s president, following a tragic incident in Istanbul. Allegedly driving a car belonging to the Somali consulate, Mohamud collided with a motorcycle courier, Yunus Emre Göçer, leading to his death six days later.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu shared CCTV footage on social media, revealing the November 30 incident at a busy junction. Initially, police attributed the accident to the courier, resulting in Mohamud’s release. However, a later review of security footage prompted a reevaluation.

The international arrest warrant was issued after Turkish officials imposed a travel ban on Mohamud, suspecting he has already fled the country. Despite diplomatic ties between Turkey and Somalia, the legal actions underscore the seriousness of the situation.

The victim, 38-year-old Göçer, left behind a grieving family and the incident has raised questions about the initial police report and sparked public demand for justice.

However, Mohamud, son of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has remained silent on the matter.

The incident could potentially strain diplomatic relations between Turkey and Somalia, which have flourished in recent years through mutual investments and collaborations in infrastructure, military training, and humanitarian aid.