MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The Governor of the Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, Dr. Hassan Mohamed Mungaab, has issued a strong warning to members of the opposition following a violent confrontation at the Warta Nabadda police station.
The incident, which resulted in casualties, has raised concerns about escalating political tensions in the capital.
Speaking at a press briefing in Mogadishu, Dr. Mungaab denounced what he described as “unacceptable and illegal actions” by opposition figures who, according to the mayor, attempted to forcibly release detainees from custody during the incident.
“No group or individual is above the law,” Mungaab said. “The idea that armed groups can storm a police station and attempt to free prisoners by force is completely unacceptable. The blood of the Somali people cannot be spilled without accountability.”
The mayor emphasized that the responsibility for the incident lies squarely with those who orchestrated and carried out the attack on the police station. He added that preliminary investigations indicate the opposition violated key security protocols, including provisions of the Arms Control Act.
Opposition Accused of Carrying Heavy Weapons
Dr. Mungaab stated that members of the opposition were seen carrying heavy firearms while advancing toward Warta Nabadda district, in violation of national arms regulations.
Among the areas they attempted to access were Tabun, Sinai, and other strategic parts of Mogadishu, but their movements were intercepted and halted by security forces.
He commended the rapid response by government forces, noting that they were well-prepared and acted swiftly to prevent the situation from spiraling further out of control.
Clashes Lead to Casualties
The mayor confirmed that the confrontation led to both deaths and injuries, as armed soldiers reportedly loyal to opposition leaders engaged in firefights with government security forces.
Prominent opposition figures allegedly involved in the incident include former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Kheyre, and Member of Parliament Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame.
Call for Restraint and Rule of Law
Dr. Mungaab urged all political actors to respect the rule of law and engage in dialogue rather than resorting to force or intimidation. He warned that any attempts to destabilize the city or undermine the authority of the security forces will be met with firm action.
“Mogadishu belongs to all Somalis, and its peace and stability are not negotiable,” the mayor concluded.