Sunday February 9, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – Somali government has intensified efforts to disrupt financial networks supporting terrorist groups, particularly al-Shabaab and ISIS, as part of its strategy to eliminate their influence in the country.
During a press conference in Mogadishu on Saturday, Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Adala, Minister of Internal Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, Minister of Religious Affairs Mukhtar Ali Robow, and Attorney General Suleiman Mohamed Mohamud reiterated the government's commitment to prosecuting individuals and networks funding terrorism.
"Do not let your wealth destroy your life," said Internal Security Minister Fartaag. "Accounts used by the militants for funding have been shut down, and security forces are ready to act against anyone found collaborating with these groups."
Fartaag also emphasized the government's ongoing support for Puntland in its fight against al-Shabaab and ISIS, highlighting cooperation with local communities in combating terrorism.
Religious Affairs Minister Mukhtar Ali Robow warned against financing any activities that harm Somali citizens, particularly in areas under government control such as Bakara Market, where residents can no longer claim they are being extorted.
"We will not accept any justification for providing funds to terrorists," Robow stated.
Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Adala noted that the government has identified individuals directly or indirectly involved in funding terrorist operations. He praised the national army for recent battlefield successes and commended the public for their ongoing support.
"We are aware that some individuals continue to collaborate with the Khawarij (a term used by the government for al-Shabaab), and this is their final warning," Adala said.
Officials emphasized that al-Shabaab has suffered defeats not only on the battlefield but also in financial, media, and ideological warfare. The ministers warned the public against any contact with al-Shabaab, urging anyone approached by the group to report the interaction to security agencies immediately.
"If you are caught facilitating funds for these terrorist groups, the government will take serious action against you," warned Fartaag.
Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has made significant progress in disrupting al-Shabaab's financial networks. Over the past few months, NISA has shut down more than 12,000 online accounts and hundreds of banks and mobile money accounts linked to the group, following intelligence on illicit money transfers.