Mogadishu (Kaab TV) – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud says security agencies confirmed that Al-Shabaab members were told to obtain NIRA national ID cards.
Speaking at the Second National Identity Conference, the President said he welcomes this development, noting that biometric registration will allow the government to fully identify anyone involved in terrorism.
“Let them take it—their fingerprints and faces will be known,” he remarked with a light laugh.
He added that the militants “are Somali citizens who have become criminals.”
President Hassan Sheikh emphasized that the national identification program is essential for enhancing security, promoting economic development, combating terrorism, preventing money laundering, and tackling other forms of organized crime. He further noted that the system will stop criminals from traveling abroad and posing a threat to other nations.
The President also issued a strong warning to anyone who provides services to individuals without a national ID, stating that they will be considered complicit in acts of terrorism or criminal activity.
He urged all Somali citizens to register and take advantage of this vital national initiative.