Saturday, November 22, 2014
Somali security forces have removed illegal roadblocks set up by armed groups around Afgoye town in Lower Shabelle region, Somalia's RBC Radio reported Friday (November 21st).
The armed men had been claiming to be government forces and charging for access to the main road linking Afgoye to Mogadishu.
The security operation was launched in response to protests by farmers, public transportation drivers and residents against the roadblocks, which had caused prices to rise in Mogadishu markets.
The operation was carried out to ensure safe access for local residents, said Colonel Ahmed Osman Cagey, commander of the Somali National Army in Lower Shabelle.
Cagey warned there would be harsh punishment for those found responsible for setting up illegal roadblocks.
"Those setting up roadblocks and denying the safe access of the people are just like al-Shabaab," he said.