MOGADISHU, (HAN) — The administration of Banaadir region, in collaboration with Somali security agencies, has expanded CCTV surveillance throughout Mogadishu, marking a significant step toward improving security in the Somali capital.
Authorities have installed cameras on major roads, commercial centers, and residential neighborhoods, covering nearly every street in the city. The footage is now a crucial tool for investigating crimes and monitoring incidents in real time. Officials, however, acknowledge that the system is not yet fully capable of preventing attacks before they occur, a gap they hope to close with increased vigilance and enhanced monitoring capabilities.
In Somalia, where terrorist attacks remain a persistent threat, the widespread use of CCTV is seen as a major advancement. The cameras help security forces track Al-Shabaab operatives and disrupt their attempts to destabilize the city.
Al-Shabaab has previously targeted CCTV installations with explosives, viewing them as a barrier to their operations. Despite these attacks, the initiative has continued uninterrupted. Over the past two years, the expansion of the surveillance network has coincided with a notable decline in terrorist incidents in Mogadishu.
Officials say the CCTV system now serves as a central component of urban security, supporting broader law enforcement efforts to maintain order and protect residents. “This network allows us to respond faster, investigate more effectively, and strengthen overall security in the capital,” a senior security official said.
The program reflects Somalia’s growing reliance on technology to address security challenges and represents a key achievement in the government’s efforts to stabilize Mogadishu amid ongoing threats from extremist groups.
