Somalia Probes Alleged Misuse of Airspace to Move Fugitive, Warns Of Sovereignty Breach

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has launched an investigation into reports alleging the unauthorised use of the country’s airspace and airports to facilitate the movement of a fugitive political figure, warning that any confirmed violation would be treated as a serious breach of sovereignty.

The agency said it was working with other national authorities to verify the reports and determine whether Somali law, immigration rules or official authorisation procedures were violated.

“If confirmed, such actions would constitute a grave violation of Somalia’s national sovereignty and immigration regulations,” the agency said, adding that facilitating fugitives or conducting unilateral operations on Somali territory without approval was unacceptable.

The government reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia-led diplomatic efforts to resolve the Yemen crisis through dialogue in Riyadh, saying any attempt by Aidarous al-Zoubaidi to bypass that process, including through alleged external assistance, would undermine ongoing regional diplomacy.

Somali officials said any substantiated misuse of airspace would also amount to a breach of bilateral arrangements and international law governing cross-border movement.

The government said it would take appropriate measures based on the findings of the investigation, underscoring its commitment to the rule of law, international norms and the protection of Somalia’s territorial integrity.