Somali Army warns against misuse of uniforms following Al-Shabaab attack
On Saturday, the Al-Shabaab militia attacked the Jilacow Investigation Centre in Mogadishu, a NISA-controlled facility, using a vehicle that they had camouflaged as that of the army.
The Somali National Army (SNA) has issued a warning over the misuse of its uniforms, insignia, and vehicles following last week's attack by the Al-Shabaab militia, who were donning army uniforms.
In a statement, the SNA said that anyone caught using these materials and symbols in an unauthorised manner will be subject to legal action, in accordance with the army's regulations.
"The Somali National Army Command sends a clear warning to individuals involved in the use of military symbols, informing them to completely avoid using the materials, symbols, and emblems of the Somali National Army, including: XDS Army uniform, XDS Army Ranks, other unique symbols and characteristics of the XDS Army," the SNA Command warned.
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Additionally, the XDS Army Command notified garage owners not to trade in, repair, or change the colour on XDS military vehicles, and to keep XDS army vehicles in their garages
"Any garage caught carrying out the above-mentioned works without a legal permit from the CXDS Command will be subject to strict action in accordance with the law. All business owners are instructed to refrain from using and trading in military equipment such as: Army Colour XDS Symbols and Emblems of the XDS Army, Military Uniforms and Clothing XDS, and everything specific to the XDS Army," the statement added.
On Saturday, the Al-Shabaab militia attacked the Jilacow Investigation Centre in Mogadishu, a NISA-controlled facility, using a vehicle that they had camouflaged as that of the army. Still, seven of them were later killed by security agencies who swiftly responded to the attack, as confirmed by the Ministry of Internal Security.
"It is worth noting that the terrorists used an Abdi-Bilaha vehicle that they had spray-painted with the colours and insignia of the security forces, and wore uniforms that resembled military uniforms. This enabled them to easily pass through security checkpoints in the capital, as no formal checks were conducted on armed forces vehicles."
"This highlights the urgent need to monitor and control vehicles painted in military colours within the capital. It is essential to fully implement the rules, procedures, and administrative decisions regarding the capital's security and arms control," the Ministry cautioned.
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