MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The Somali federal government has suspended flights to Kismayo and Dolow, a day after deadly clashes erupted in Dolow and Kulbiyow between Jubbaland forces and federal troops from Mogadishu.
Local flights were grounded this morning following the directive. Additionally, the federal government fined Halla Airlines, a local carrier, for allegedly airlifting Jubbaland forces from Kismayo to Dolow on Monday.
Officials from the Ministry of Internal Security accused Jubbaland leader Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) of coercing the airline into transporting his forces.
In response, Jubbaland accused Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of inciting violence and “warmongering in Jubbaland,” holding him responsible for the consequences of the escalating conflict.
The flight suspension has caused significant disruptions for civilians traveling between Jubbaland and Mogadishu, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded in Mogadishu, Dolow, and Kismayo. There is no indication yet of when the suspension might be lifted.