Distinguish roles of security agencies, civil society groups tell government

Civil society organisations have called on the government to clearly delineate the functions of the various security forces to avoid duplication of roles and conflict.

Somalia South-Central Non-State Actors (SOSCENSA) chairperson Dini Mohamed Dini said Saturday it was difficult to tell the roles of the military, police and intelligence agencies since both are doing the same security work.

“We cannot differentiate the roles of the military, police and NISA personnel. You will find the military and the police in the same line of work,” said Dini. “One is meant for internal security while the other is for external and NISA is solely tasked with intelligence. We request this distinction be made clearly.”

Speaking during an open cabinet session Saturday, Dini said the security forces had done a commendable job but the government must clearly define their roles.

Instances of clashes between security divisions have been reported in Mogadishu in the recent past. In July, six security forces were killed when intelligence agency, NISA officers clashed with members of the presidential elite security squad near the presidential palace in Mogadishu.

Two months later in mid-September at least six people were killed when forces attached to the Mogadishu Stabilisation Force engaged in a battle with military officers in Hanta-Dheer area in Mogadishu’s Hodan district.

Article 26 of the Provisional Constitution establishes four security divisions namely; the armed forces, intelligence services, police force and prison forces.