MOGADISHU, (HAN) – Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail “Fartaag,” on Thursday chaired a high-level security meeting in Mogadishu, bringing together senior security agencies and officials from the Banadir regional administration. The meeting was held at the Mogadishu Municipality headquarters.
Discussions focused on the recent security incidents in the capital, particularly the attack on the Warta Nabadda district police station. Participants agreed to fully enforce the Cabinet’s earlier resolution on arms control, specifically banning the movement of heavy weaponry such as rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), heavy machine guns, and similar weapons within the city.
Minister Fartaag emphasized that Somali law protects the right to peaceful civilian demonstrations, allowing citizens to express grievances. However, he underscored that armed protests would not be tolerated, as they endanger public safety and risk sparking violent clashes.
The Minister also issued a directive to hotel owners in Mogadishu, reminding them to strictly adhere to the law. He warned that no unauthorized meetings or gatherings that could undermine security or state authority should be hosted in their establishments. Security agencies were instructed to take firm action against any individual or group found violating these directives.
Fartaag praised security forces for their swift response in containing Wednesday’s attempted assault on the Warta Nabadda police station by a faction linked to the so-called Rescue Platform (Madasha Samatabixinta). He noted that the forces’ quick intervention prevented further casualties and wider instability.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding Mogadishu’s security and called for continued collaboration between security agencies, local authorities, and the public to ensure peace and stability in the capital.
