(08 Feb 2025) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — Somalia’s government has issued a strong warning against any financial dealings with extremist groups, as it intensifies its campaign against Al-Shabab and ISIS.
At a press conference in Mogadishu, senior officials, including the Ministers of Internal Security and Religious Affairs, the Deputy Minister of Information, and the Attorney General, highlighted progress in combating the militants.
They praised the Somali National Army (SNA) and local forces for their battlefield successes and acknowledged public support.
“The primary goal of the government remains the eradication of Khawarij terrorists,” the ministers said, using a term often used to describe Al-Shabab. “They have been decisively defeated on all fronts.”
Internal Security Minister Abdullahi Fartaag warned that the government had frozen accounts linked to extremist financing and was closely monitoring any attempts to support them. “Do not let your wealth destroy your life,” he cautioned, adding that security agencies would take action against those aiding militants.
Religious Affairs Minister Sheikh Mukhtar Robow stressed that there was “no justification” for funding groups that harm the Somali people. He singled out government-controlled areas like Mogadishu’s Bakara Market, saying extortion by militants would no longer be tolerated.
Deputy Information Minister Abdirahman Yusuf Al-Adala said the government had intelligence on individuals funding Al-Shabab and ISIS, directly or indirectly, and vowed legal action.
The ministers urged citizens to report any contact with extremist groups to security forces, reaffirming the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorist networks.
Meanwhile, the SNA and local militias continue large-scale operations to liberate militant strongholds.
Halqabsi News
