Friday July 19, 2024
FILE - Al-Shabaab militants patrol a street in Somalia. The group remains a significant threat to national security, prompting recent financial sanctions by the Somali government to curb their operations and funding./ Getty Images
Mogadishu (HOL) — The National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism has imposed financial sanctions on senior leaders of Al-Shabaab, aiming to disrupt the group's operations and reduce the risk of terrorist activities in Somalia.
The committee's statement emphasized that anyone supporting Al-Shabaab would face sanctions, including prominent figures in the group, such as Deputy Leader Mahad Abdirahman Warsame, known as Karatey, Abuu Abdirahman. Warsame oversees the militant insurgency group's security, finance, and media activities.
Other key figures on the sanctions list include Yusuf Ahmed Haji Nunow, known as Geesadde, Bishaari, who serves as a security commander. He plans and executes security operations, bombings, and assassination plots. Abdikarin Osman Jilacow, known as Mustafa Aato, who heads the regional security forces and is responsible for similar activities in the regions, is also sanctioned.
Nur Abdi Roble, known as Nuunuule, commands the militia forces in the Mudug region and is a central figure in the conflicts in the central regions. Additionally, Bakar Bashe Adan Ahmed, known as Shariif, oversees zakat (charity) collection and revenue from businesses in the Bay and Bakool regions.
The sanctions list also includes individuals previously identified by the National Committee. These include Abukar Ali Adan, known as Abdullahi Garweyne, Hijama, Deputy Leader of the Shabaab Group, who plays a major role in planning and overseeing military operations. Muhammad Mire Jama, known as Mire, is a regional security forces commander overseeing regional security operations. Hassan Yaqub Ali Bari, known as Khawlajan, Abu Abbas, Head of the Shura Council, oversees religious and ideological guidance within the group.
"The committee aims to combat the financing of terrorism and reduce the risks of terrorist activities in the country. By identifying and sanctioning individuals and entities associated with extremists, the committee seeks to disrupt and penalize those supporting terrorism to enhance the nation's security," the report stated.
The government's comprehensive sanctions list demonstrates a new commitment to reducing Al-Shabaab's influence and funding. These sanctions are part of a larger strategy to stabilize Somalia and enhance national security.
Individuals who believe they have been mistakenly sanctioned have the right to appeal in accordance with the Financial Sanctions Act of 2023. Appeals can be submitted to the National Committee for review, and changes can be made if appropriate evidence is provided. Individuals can appeal to the High Court if they are unsatisfied with the committee's response.