Exploring the predictors of public trust in police services in Somalia

PurposeThis study examined public perceptions of law enforcement agencies in Mogadishu, Somalia. Specifically, the researchers examined the predictors of public trust in the police in Somali post-conflict contexts.Design/methodology/approachData were collected through an online cross-sectional survey of 425 Mogadishu residents. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the data and test the hypothesized relationship.FindingsThe results revealed that perceived police accountability, performance and professionalism significantly and positively influence public trust in the Somali police force.Practical implicationsThis study provides practical recommendations for Somalia's policymakers and law enforcement agencies. It emphasizes the importance of implementing stronger accountability systems, programs to enhance performance and training in professional conduct as key approaches to restoring and maintaining public confidence in the police force. These initiatives are crucial for preserving social stability and ensuring public safety in a society recovering from conflicts.Originality/valueThis study fills a significant gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive framework that combines performance and social learning theories to explore public trust in the police within a post-conflict context. The findings contribute valuable knowledge on the factors that can enhance public trust in law enforcement in countries recovering from conflict, particularly Somalia.