Mogadishu (Kaab TV) – Soldiers from the Somali Custodial Corps blocked the road leading to the central prison in Mogadishu this morning, a key route that passes in front of the Mogadishu Port, in protest over prolonged unpaid salaries.
Some of the soldiers who spoke to the media said they had not received any pay for more than a year, which forced them to take this action and shut down the road. They added that early in the morning they completely halted vehicle movement, insisting that no one would be allowed to pass.
The road remained closed for several hours, significantly disrupting the movement of people and vehicles in this important area.
One of the officers involved in the blockade told reporters that the troops had gone without pay and basic rights for over a year and a half, leaving them with no choice but to protest.
“We are calling on the commander of the force, the Ministry of Justice, the President, and the Prime Minister to respond to our demands within 12 hours and ensure we receive our outstanding rights within that time,” the officer said.
Finally, the soldiers withdrew from the area after members of the Haramcad Police Unit arrived and intervened, leading to the reopening of the road.
So far, there has been no official statement from the Somali Custodial Corps command regarding the grievances raised by these soldiers.