Mogadishu police, intelligence agents crack down on armed groups after surge in street crime
NISA described the operation as part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to disrupt groups it considers anti-peace elements.
Somali security agencies in Mogadishu have conducted separate operations and meetings as authorities work to tackle rising street crime, criminal activity, and plots linked to armed groups.
The Banadir Regional Police Force and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) outlined measures aimed at preventing attacks and enhancing safety in the capital and surrounding regions.
More To Read
- Somalia declares drought emergency as millions face hunger after failed rains
- International Rescue Committee warns millions at risk as drought intensifies across Northern Somalia
- Somali Region frees ‘121 unlawfully detained’ people, ‘pardons’ two jailed journalists, Rights Commission says
- South Sudan and Somalia eye group stage in FIFA Arab Cup 2025 qualifiers
- Somalia faces worsening hunger with millions needing assistance
- East African Court postpones swearing-in of nine Somali legislators to EALA
Commander of the Banadir Regional Police Force, Mahdi Omar Mumin, led a meeting that brought together senior police officers from various districts.
The session reviewed the overall security situation in Mogadishu and recent incidents reported over the past weeks.
Officers briefed the commander on crime trends, with a particular focus on the surge in mobile phone robberies carried out by armed groups in several neighbourhoods.
Police officials at the meeting also discussed ongoing and planned operations aimed at curbing robberies and arresting groups responsible for the rise in phone theft. The discussions included updates on incidents, reports from district commanders, and measures taken in response to public complaints.
Commander Mahdi Omar Mumin instructed police units in the region to increase their presence on the streets and remain vigilant in areas where residents have reported heightened criminal activity. He also directed the force to act firmly against groups threatening public safety.
In a statement released after the meeting, the Banadir Regional Police Force said, “The meeting focused on strengthening security, increasing the vigilance of the forces, and preventing activities that could damage the reputation of the Police.”
The meeting comes as residents in several districts have raised concerns about escalating street robberies. Many have reported attacks by armed youth groups targeting pedestrians and public transport users, particularly those carrying mobile phones. Police officials said information shared by residents has helped guide ongoing operations.
In a separate development, NISA announced on Thursday that it conducted an operation resulting in the arrest of 11 suspects accused of planning attacks and gathering intelligence for armed groups.
The agency said the individuals were part of a covert network operating in Mogadishu and in parts of Lower and Middle Shabelle. According to NISA, the group was planning attacks on government targets and civilians.
Officials said the arrests followed an intelligence-driven investigation, during which agents tracked the suspects’ movements and communications over an extended period. Some individuals were detained while carrying out activities linked to terrorism.
NISA described the operation as part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to disrupt groups it considers anti-peace elements. The agency noted that recent improvements in intelligence gathering have enabled authorities to locate and dismantle networks before they can carry out attacks.
In its statement, NISA confirmed that the 11 suspects remain in custody and are being questioned by investigators. The agency said the cases will be transferred to judicial authorities for prosecution once the investigation is complete.
Top Stories Today
