Mogadishu Police Warn Former Leaders against Destabilizing Capital

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Banaadir Regional Police Commander Col. Mahdi Omar has accused former political leaders of attempting to create instability in the Somali capital and warned that authorities would take action against anyone undermining public security.

Speaking at a press conference, Col. Omar said security agencies had detected what he described as efforts by certain politicians to mobilize armed groups and disrupt stability in Mogadishu amid ongoing security operations across the city.

“It is unfortunate that former leaders are thinking about bringing militia forces into the capital and creating chaos and insecurity among civilians,” Col. Omar said.

The police commander said authorities were closely monitoring activities linked to individuals accused of politicizing security operations and attempting to incite unrest in parts of the capital.

Col. Omar specifically referenced tensions reported in the Soobe area earlier, alleging that armed youths had been mobilized among civilians, although he said security forces acted with restraint to avoid civilian casualties and prevent escalation.

He also said intensified operations in Deyniile district followed intelligence reports indicating that suspected Al-Shabaab members were hiding in residential neighborhoods.

The remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Somalia surrounding security, constitutional reforms and the federal government’s broader state-building agenda, with Mogadishu remaining under tight security due to threats from the Al-Shabaab militant group.

The federal government of Somalia has in recent months intensified security operations in the capital, expanding checkpoints, intelligence-led raids and neighborhood stabilization measures as authorities seek to prevent militant attacks and strengthen public security.

Col. Omar urged residents to avoid gatherings or mobilizations that could threaten stability in the capital and warned that individuals involved in inciting violence or disorder would face legal action.

The federal government has repeatedly emphasized that maintaining security in Mogadishu remains a top priority as Somalia pushes forward with political reforms, democratic transition efforts and military operations against Al-Shabaab.