Somali Gov’t Detains U.S-Trained Soldiers Implicated in Food Rations Racket in Move to Fight Graft

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: ­­Several officers from the US-trained Danab Forces have been suspended and detained following an investigation which implicated them in swindling food rations donated by the U.S. government.

The Ministry of Defence announced Thursday that investigations have established the officers, whose identity remains unknown were implicated and found culpable of the offence. The Ministry also admitted that a section of Danab officers had diverted food rations meant for the forces.

“FGS takes these incidents seriously and have immediately launched investigations which resulted in the suspension and detention of officers within the ranks to ensure accountability and transparency,” a statement from the Defence headquarters read in part.

It added that the ministry had notified the relevant stakeholders of the investigations and will share the outcome ‘in due course.’

The Ministry also noted that it had engaged in bilateral talks with the US Government to work out a transition plan which would see the Somali government take over support of Danab including the provison of food rations.

The US government has been supporting the Danab Special Forces in training and food rations. The combat force has been critical in fighting the militant group Al-Shabaab, especially during urban hostage situations.

In December 2017, the Somali National Army was rocked by a similar incident leading to the suspension of food rations from the U.S government.

The arrest and suspension of the officers is a strong indication by the Somali government to fight graft within the disciplined forces and ensure professionalism in the forces.