South West State Bans Feykon Motorcycles in Security Crackdown

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BAIDOA: South West State has banned the use of Feykon motorcycles across its territory, citing security concerns and efforts to restrict movements that could facilitate attacks by Al-Shabaab.

South West Security Minister Isaaq Mohamed Korsaar announced the decision following an extraordinary security meeting at the regional presidential palace in Baidoa. He said the ban would apply throughout the state but gave no details on when it would take effect, how it would be enforced or how long it would remain in place.

Korsaar also accused some people in South West State of supporting Al-Shabaab, warning that those found assisting the militant group would face legal action. He did not identify the individuals or provide further details about the allegations.

The meeting, chaired by Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Adan Madoobe), reviewed the security situation, ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab and measures to strengthen stability across the region.

Adan Madoobe urged security agencies to improve coordination and step up efforts to protect civilians and their property. Federal Livestock Minister Hassan Hussein Mohamed Eleey and South West State Minister of State for the Presidency Abdirahim Mohamed Hassan Laamey also attended.

The ban comes as South West authorities seek to tighten security amid the continuing conflict with Al-Shabaab, which has carried out attacks against security forces, government officials and civilians in parts of southern and central Somalia.

Motorcycles are widely used for transport in Somali towns and rural areas, but restrictions on their use have also been adopted in some areas as security measures. Authorities have not explained whether the latest ban targets all Feykon motorcycles regardless of use or includes exemptions for essential services.