(17 July 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kariye Qoorqoor made an unannounced visit to Mogadishu to brief senior US embassy officials on the situation surrounding the recent looting of weapons in Abudwak district, sources within the Galmudug Presidential office told Halqabsi News.
The United States has been a key partner in Somalia’s security efforts and has provided significant assistance in the fight against Al-Shabaab, making their involvement in this matter crucial. Qoorqoor met with the US Deputy Ambassador to Somalia, Shane Dixon, at the heavily fortified embassy compound in Halane. The discussion centred around the massive quantity of weapons seized by the federal government but subsequently looted by civilians on Monday.
The two cargo lorries contained an astonishing array of weaponry, including 2,200 AK-47 assault rifles, 260 American-made M16 sniper rifles, 800 handguns, 350 Norinco Model NDM-86 Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifles with Scope, and 200 Dshk heavy machine guns, along with ammunition and bulletproof vests.
The incident has raised significant concerns, particularly as Somalia recently succeeded in lifting a longstanding arms embargo. Qoorqoor shared a detailed report with US officials, providing information on individuals suspected of smuggling the weapons from Ethiopia.
Conflicting reports suggest the weapons were destined either for a Galmudug presidential candidate or Al-Shabaab militants. The weapons, illegally transported from Ethiopia, were seized by residents, prompting the government to deploy troops. However, Abudwaq officials argue that force is not the answer.
“This issue requires technique, not power and skill,” said Nasteh Abdi, Aabudwaq’s director of security and political affairs. He insists the focus should be on prosecuting the smugglers, not the residents who took the weapons.
The looted weapons are reportedly appearing on the black market. Eyewitnesses who spoke to Halqabsi News claim that some have been seen in cities like Baledweyne and Galkacyo, with AK47s allegedly selling for $300.
The central government maintains its commitment to recovering the weapons, creating a tense standoff that threatens to escalate into violence. The unchecked spread of such a vast quantity of arms has fueled fears of escalating clan conflicts, revenge attacks, and widespread violence in the lead-up to the regional elections.
Halqabsi News
