Man Extradited from Somalia, Arraigned on Murder and Robbery Charges

Published on July 20, 2026

A Columbus man, Hanut Abdulle, 23, was arraigned today on murder and robbery charges in connection with the 2021 fatal shooting of Bryce Persang in West Columbus. His bond was set at $2 million. Abdulle must also surrender his passport and is subject to GPS monitoring if he posts bond.

Abdulle was indicted in 2023 on the following charges:

• One count of Aggravated Murder
• Two counts of Murder
• One count of Aggravated Robbery

All counts carry firearm specifications.

Background

On September 16, 2021, officers responded to the 5500 block of Floral Circle South on a report of a shooting. They found Persang in the passenger seat of a Honda Fit, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

A police investigation determined that Abdulle and co-defendant Tahir Said, 24, were responsible for the murder. Shortly after the shooting, both men fled the country.

With assistance from the FBI, the U.S. Marshals, and the Department of Justice, as well as Columbus Police and agencies in Africa and Somali police and intelligence services, authorities arrested Abdulle and extradited him to Ohio. Said remains at large.

David Zeyen will serve as the prosecutor on the case.

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