Somali army seizes armoured vehicle from ex-officer in crackdown on misused military assets

The Somali National Army (SNA) has seized an armoured vehicle operated by former officer Colonel Ali Hubeey, in what officials describe as part of a nationwide campaign to recover government military assets and strengthen accountability within the armed forces.

The vehicle, bearing Somali military insignia, was intercepted near Mogadishu’s Liido Beach. Colonel Hubeey, who previously served in the national army and later with the Hirshabelle regional forces, confirmed the incident on his social media page, expressing dissatisfaction and stating that it was “an issue that will not end here.”

The seizure comes amid ongoing defence sector reforms aimed at regulating the use of state-issued weapons and vehicles.

Authorities have reiterated that all government assets must remain under official control, warning that individuals found unlawfully possessing or using them will face legal consequences.

Tighter rules

Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi announced on Sunday that tighter rules will now govern movement within Mogadishu and across the country.

“The government will issue a directive prohibiting any unmarked vehicle or unidentified soldier from operating within Mogadishu or across the country,” Fiqi said.

He explained that the measure aims to prevent militant infiltration and safeguard civilians.

The move follows a recent Al-Shabaab attack on the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) compound at Godka Jilicow in the Banadir region.

Disguised vehicle

Militants reportedly used a vehicle disguised with NISA markings to breach the facility — an incident that raised fresh concerns over the misuse of government insignia and equipment.

“When the Khawarij failed to infiltrate using civilian vehicles, they began disguising themselves in cars resembling those of the government,” Fiqi said. “It was a rare incident, and it will not happen again.”

Officials say the Ministry of Defence has intensified inspections to track and reclaim military property in private hands. The campaign forms part of the federal government’s wider efforts to reform the security sector, reinforce discipline, and restore public confidence in national institutions.

Through these enforcement efforts, Somali authorities aim to send a clear message — that misuse of combat vehicles and other military resources will not be tolerated, and every asset must serve its rightful role in securing the country from Al-Shabaab and other armed threats.

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