Al-Shabaab Militants Attack Key Security Checkpoint in Mogadishu

Al-Shabaab Militants Attack Key Security Checkpoint in Mogadishu

On Monday night, suspected al-Shabaab militants launched an assault on a government security checkpoint in the Kahda district of Mogadishu, marking the latest in a series of attacks targeting the Somali capital.

The attack took place at the Ali Janaale Hill checkpoint, one of the city’s critical security posts. Reports indicate that the militants initially approached using motorcycles before engaging in close combat with the checkpoint personnel. The clash reportedly lasted around 30 minutes and resulted in casualties on both sides, though the exact numbers have not been confirmed.

The checkpoint is manned by the Haramcad Special Police Forces, a highly trained unit operating alongside the Polizia Militare to secure key locations throughout Mogadishu. According to a brief statement issued by the Haramcad forces, they successfully foiled an attempt by al-Shabaab to launch mortar attacks into the city.

“The operation took place between the Kaxda Cemetery and the Maracadde area, south of Kaxda District in the Banadir Region,” the statement read, underscoring the strategic significance of the checkpoint in protecting the capital.

While no casualties were officially reported by the Haramcad Special Police Forces, the attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing Mogadishu and the ongoing threat posed by militant groups operating in the region. Authorities continue to maintain heightened security at key checkpoints to prevent further attacks and safeguard civilians.

As the Somali government strengthens its security operations, incidents like Monday night’s attack serve as a stark reminder of the volatility in the region and the importance of coordinated efforts between specialized units and military forces to maintain stability.

 

Yemen and Somalia Strengthen Ties in Maritime, Air Transport, and Security Cooperation

 Yemen and Somalia Strengthen Ties in Maritime, Air Transport, and Security Cooperation

Yemen’s Minister of Transport, Dr. Abdisalam Hamid, met with Somalia’s Ambassador to Yemen, Abdulhakim Mohamed, in Aden on Sunday to discuss enhancing cooperation between the two brotherly nations, particularly in the fields of maritime and air transport.

Minister Hamid emphasized the deep-rooted historical, social, and political relations between Yemen and Somalia, noting their shared interests in economic, social, and security cooperation.

He expressed the Yemeni Ministry of Transport’s readiness to boost trade and economic exchanges between the two countries and voiced support for the launch of direct flights by Somali Airlines.

“We are ready to grant operating licenses that will benefit both peoples,” the Minister said.

Dr. Hamid also revealed that the Yemeni government plans to purchase two small aircraft for domestic routes, which could also be utilized for regional connections between Yemen, Somalia, and neighboring countries.

The Minister further highlighted the need to strengthen trade links between the ports of both nations and to enhance cooperation in combating arms smuggling and illegal trade from parts of the Horn of Africa into Yemen.

For his part, Ambassador Abdulhakim Mohamed thanked the Yemeni government and the Ministry of Transport for their continued efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation, reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to deepening the brotherly relations between the two nations.

In recent months, Yemen and Somalia have intensified their partnership in security and trade, following reports from the U.S. government indicating growing connections between Somalia’s al-Shabaab group and Yemen’s Houthi movement.

Somali Airlines Set to Take Off Again by the End of 2025

 Somali Airlines Set to Take Off Again by the End of 2025

Somalia’s Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Farah Nuuh, has announced that Somali Airlines will officially resume operations before the end of this year — marking a major milestone in the nation’s aviation history.

Speaking on Sunday, Minister Nuuh confirmed that the aircraft and all related equipment are ready, emphasizing the government’s determination to revive the national carrier after more than three decades.

“I am pleased to inform the Somali people that we will re-launch Somali Airlines before the end of this year,” the Minister said.

He also highlighted plans to modernize Aden Adde International Airport and other airports across the country, noting that 72 airports require repair and modernization. Fifteen of these are currently under renovation, with several nearing completion.

“We must show the world that our airports are reliable — at least comparable to those of neighboring countries. Somali citizens and politicians must respect the rule of law and avoid disrupting airport operations,” he added.

In July 2025, the Somali government announced the purchase of two Airbus A320 aircraft, a significant step toward reviving the flag carrier, which ceased operations in 1991 following the collapse of central authority.

Founded in 1964, Somali Airlines once connected Mogadishu to major cities across East Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. The civil war forced the airline to suspend operations, leading to decades without a national carrier.

Since then, a mix of international airlines — including Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and flydubai — have maintained regular flights to Mogadishu. Regional carriers like Daallo Airlines, Jubba Airways, and African Express Airways have provided crucial domestic and cross-border services.

Now, with Somali Airlines preparing to return to the skies, many see this as a symbol of national pride, recovery, and progress — a long-awaited moment that rekindles the dream of seeing Somalia’s flag fly once again above the clouds. 

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Praises Progress at Somalia’s Immigration Agency

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Praises Progress at Somalia’s Immigration Agency

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Saturday visited the headquarters of the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) to evaluate its modernization progress and key operations.

During the visit, the President was briefed by Minister of Internal Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag and ICA Director-General Mustafe Sheikh Ali Dhuxulow. They highlighted ongoing reforms, efforts to decentralize services across the country, and initiatives to improve efficiency.

President Hassan Sheikh underlined the importance of enforcing all immigration-related laws, maintaining transparency in public service, and strengthening measures against human trafficking, terrorism, and illegal migration. He emphasized that the ICA plays a crucial role in protecting Somalia’s borders and ensuring national security through accurate verification of all travelers entering the country.

The President commended the agency for major milestones, including the launch of the modern e-Visa system that has simplified the entry process for visitors. He also praised the implementation of the new PISCES system — a biometric-based technology that uses fingerprint and facial recognition data to enhance border control and security.

This visit reflects the government’s broader commitment to digital transformation and the strengthening of public institutions to deliver efficient, transparent, and secure services for Somali citizens.

 

When Texts Ruin Careers

When Texts Ruin Careers

In an era where everyone’s life fits in the palm of their hand, even a simple text message can destroy a career.

Over the past few weeks, several American politicians have learned this lesson the hard way. From young Republicans sharing racist and violent jokes in private chats, to a White House nominee who admitted to having a “Nazi streak,” leaked messages have ended political careers almost instantly.

Politico, one of the most influential names in political journalism, has been leading these investigations. The outlet says it is not about gossip, but about giving readers an unfiltered look at how people in power really think and communicate. Senior editor Alex Burns described text messages as “one of the few remaining frontiers of authenticity,” revealing how public figures act when they believe no one is watching.

Still, these leaks raise difficult questions. How private should private conversations be? How can anyone prove authenticity in an era of AI-generated and edited screenshots? Experts say that digital manipulation has made it increasingly difficult to distinguish between real and fake content.

Despite countless warnings, politicians continue to repeat the same mistakes — driven by overconfidence or a false sense of privacy. As Professor Sarah Kreps of Cornell University explained, “Everyone sees the cautionary tales, but it doesn’t stop the behavior.”

The main lesson is simple: Think before you text.
In the digital age, nothing truly stays private, and a single message can end an entire career.

 

Somali Police Arrest Two Soldiers Accused of Robbery in Mogadishu

 Somali Police Arrest Two Soldiers Accused of Robbery in Mogadishu

The Somali Police Force has arrested two men accused of robbing civilians in Mogadishu, in a case that has drawn public attention due to the suspects’ identities as government soldiers. The arrests were made on Friday by officers stationed at the Garasbaley Police Station.

According to police reports, the two suspects — identified as Mustaf Nisaam Mohamed and Anas Mohamed Mumin — were apprehended while allegedly carrying out a robbery in the Siinka Dheer area of the Garasbaley district. Shockingly, both men were said to be wearing official police uniforms at the time of their arrest.

A statement from the Banadir Regional Police Command confirmed that the suspects would be referred to court for prosecution. The police also reiterated their commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that no one, regardless of their position, is above accountability.

Authorities further urged Mogadishu residents to cooperate with the security forces by reporting any suspicious or criminal activity, stressing that community collaboration is vital for maintaining safety and stability in the capital.

The arrests come amid a wider security crackdown in Mogadishu, where law enforcement agencies have stepped up operations to curb rising incidents of theft, assault, and other criminal behavior. The Somali Police Force has emphasized that its efforts are aimed at restoring public trust and strengthening security across the Banadir region.

This incident underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to addressing corruption and misconduct within its own ranks, reinforcing the message that justice applies to all — including those in uniform.

Ekitike Shines as Liverpool Crush Frankfurt 5–1 in Champions League Comeback

Ekitike Shines as Liverpool Crush Frankfurt 5–1 in Champions League Comeback

Liverpool bounced back to winning ways in stunning fashion with a 5–1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday night. Former Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike scored against his old club as the Reds ended a run of four straight defeats.

Frankfurt took an early lead through Rasmus Kristensen, but Liverpool responded strongly — Ekitike equalized before Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate both scored from corners to make it 3–1 before halftime. Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai added late goals to seal the win.

With the result, Liverpool climbed to 10th place in the Champions League league phase, reigniting their European hopes. Van Dijk said after the game, “It’s a win and something to build on.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid also recorded big victories on the same night, while Tottenham were held to a 0–0 draw at Monaco.

 

Somalia Boosts Security in Mogadishu with New Troop Deployment

 Somalia Boosts Security in Mogadishu with New Troop Deployment

In a move to tighten security in the capital, the Somali government has deployed additional forces to the outskirts of Mogadishu. The new troops, who have undergone specialized training, have been assigned to monitor movement in and out of the city in an effort to prevent potential attacks by the militant group Al-Shabaab.

Over the past few hours, residents have reported seeing heavily armed soldiers in combat vehicles conducting operations across several parts of Mogadishu. According to an official statement from the federal government, “The operation, which is part of efforts to ensure the security of the capital, targeted key areas suspected of security threats.”

The deployment includes members of the Haramcad (Cheetah) Police Unit, an elite force known for its rapid-response capability and success in previous operations. The Haramcad unit has played a vital role in stabilizing several districts of the Benadir region, contributing to a noticeable improvement in local security conditions.

This latest move reflects the government’s ongoing strategy to curb Al-Shabaab’s influence and maintain public safety amid persistent threats. With the reinforced security presence, authorities aim to reassure Mogadishu residents and strengthen confidence in the city’s security apparatus.

As the operation continues, citizens are being urged to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious activity to help sustain peace and order in the capital.

The Closure of USAID Deeply Impacts Somalia’s Economy

The Closure of USAID Deeply Impacts Somalia’s Economy

The closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) earlier this year has dealt a major blow to Somalia’s economy and tax revenues, according to Hodan Osman, President of the Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank.

Speaking at the Financial Times Africa Summit in London, Osman said the sudden cut in foreign aid severely affected Somalia’s GDP and disrupted key sectors of the economy. “In Somalia, it really impacted our GDP,” she said.

The move came after former U.S. President Donald Trump decided to slash the foreign aid budget and shut down USAID, an agency that had long supported global health, education, and development initiatives.

Osman explained that the impact went far beyond development projects — the overall economy was hit in ways the government hadn’t anticipated. “It also had a severe impact just on the economy alone that we weren’t really thinking about,” she noted.

The reduction in aid funding led to slower economic activity and a decline in sales tax revenue for the government, exposing Somalia’s vulnerability to external financial shocks.

This situation highlights the urgent need for Somalia to diversify its sources of revenue and strengthen domestic economic resilience, ensuring that future growth is not entirely dependent on international assistance.

 

Nearly One Million Register to Vote in Benadir Ahead of Somalia’s Upcoming Elections

Nearly One Million Register to Vote in Benadir Ahead of Somalia’s Upcoming Elections

 

Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission announced on Sunday that nearly one million citizens have registered to vote in the Benadir region — a major milestone toward the nation’s democratic journey.

According to the Commission, 923,220 citizens registered across 56 centers in the region’s 16 districts, a strong indication of public interest in participating in the country’s political process.

“The voter registration process in Benadir has been smooth, and the high turnout shows the people’s growing commitment to shaping Somalia’s future,” said Commission Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed. He confirmed that the elections are set to take place next month and urged authorities to ensure political organizations can campaign freely and transparently.

However, opposition groups and two federal member states — Puntland and Jubbaland — have announced they will boycott the elections, accusing the federal government of managing the process unilaterally and undermining the principle of consensus.

The upcoming elections are widely seen as a key test for Somalia’s democracy, reflecting the nation’s efforts to strengthen its institutions, promote inclusivity, and move toward lasting political stability.

Standing with Somalia’s Heroes: The Moral Duty to Support Our National Army

 Standing with Somalia’s Heroes: The Moral Duty to Support Our National Army

In the heart of Somalia, men and women in uniform stand guard against one of the greatest threats to peace—Al-Shabaab. These soldiers are not just fighters; they are guardians of our nation’s dreams, our children’s safety, and our collective future.

Every day, the Somali National Army (SNA) faces danger with courage and resilience. Their mission goes beyond defeating an armed group—it’s about restoring hope in communities torn apart by fear. It’s about allowing farmers to return to their lands, children to go back to school, and families to rebuild what terror tried to destroy.

Al-Shabaab continues to spread fear through violence, disrupting education, healthcare, and daily life. But the spirit of Somalia is stronger than any act of terror. Each time a soldier refuses to give up, a village regains its peace. Each victory on the battlefield brings us closer to a Somalia where fear no longer dictates our lives.

Supporting the Somali National Army is more than a patriotic act—it’s a moral obligation. Whether through words of encouragement, community initiatives, or national programs that boost morale and welfare, every contribution matters.

Somalia’s path to peace is long, but it is clear: unity, resilience, and respect for those who defend us will pave the way forward.

Let us all stand with the brave heroes of the Somali National Army—and together, build the peaceful Somalia we all dream of. 

Clan Clashes Erupt in Central Somalia’s Galgadud Region

Clan Clashes Erupt in Central Somalia’s Galgadud Region

Deadly clan fighting broke out Sunday near the villages of U Maraayo and Baalal Dheer in Somalia’s central Galgadud region, leaving several people dead and others wounded, according to local elders and residents.

The clashes reportedly stemmed from a revenge-related killing that quickly escalated into heavy fighting involving automatic weapons and artillery. Terrified civilians fled their homes as gunfire echoed through the rural settlements, disrupting daily life and sparking fears of further bloodshed.

Residents say the exact death toll remains uncertain as both sides continue to hold their positions. “Tensions are still high, and both sides remain armed,” said one resident from Baalal Dheer in a phone interview. “People fear the fighting could start again at any moment.”

Community elders and local leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire, urging both militias to stand down and allow peace negotiations to begin. However, early mediation efforts have so far failed to stop the violence.

Observers have expressed concern over the lack of swift intervention from both the Galmudug regional administration and the federal government. Many believe that without a strong, coordinated response, such localized clan conflicts could further undermine security in central Somalia — an area already affected by ongoing counterterrorism operations against Al-Shabaab.

The situation remains tense as residents hope for calm and a return to dialogue. Hiiraan Online and other local media continue to monitor the crisis closely for updates.

 

Somali Traders in Cape Town Face Renewed Wave of Violence

 

Somali Traders in Cape Town Face Renewed Wave of Violence

For the fourth consecutive day, Somali-owned shops across several Cape Town townships have remained shuttered following a disturbing wave of armed attacks that left three Somali nationals dead and two others injured. The renewed violence has shaken the Somali community in South Africa and reignited calls for better protection from local authorities.

The attacks, concentrated in the townships of Philippi, Nyanga, and Khayelitsha, saw armed gangs raid and loot Somali-run convenience stores — many of which serve low-income neighborhoods. Fearful traders have since closed their businesses, fleeing for safety as the sense of insecurity deepens.

Despite the escalating violence, police have yet to announce any arrests. Somali community leaders say this lack of accountability has intensified anger and despair among the victims’ families and business owners. Representatives of the Somali community met with police officials on Saturday, urging for stronger patrols and swift investigations to prevent further bloodshed.

The three slain traders were laid to rest at the Muslim cemetery in Mowbray, Cape Town, on the same day of the attacks. Two others remain hospitalized, suffering from gunshot and stab wounds.

For Somali migrants who left their homeland seeking peace and economic opportunity, South Africa has become both a refuge and a recurring scene of tragedy. Over the past decade, Somali traders — known for revitalizing local economies through small retail businesses — have repeatedly fallen victim to xenophobic violence, often fueled by economic tensions and criminal opportunism.

“This is not the first time we have buried our people,” one Somali shop owner in Khayelitsha told reporters. “We came here looking for peace, but every few months we face the same violence.”

As the community mourns, calls grow louder for the South African government to take decisive action to end xenophobic attacks and ensure the safety of all residents — regardless of nationality.

Education on Hold: Hundreds of Pastoralist Children in Galmudug Left Without Schooling as Funding Runs Dry

Education on Hold: Hundreds of Pastoralist Children in Galmudug Left Without Schooling as Funding Runs Dry

In the rural corners of Adado district, Galmudug State, the laughter and lessons that once filled makeshift classrooms have fallen silent. This academic year, free schools supported by the Galmudug education authority failed to open, leaving nearly 450 pastoralist children without access to education.

The shutdown came after humanitarian organizations that had funded teacher salaries withdrew their support. With no alternative funding available, the local education authority could not keep the schools running.

For families like that of Abdi Mahmoud Hassan, a father of seven in Qurdubanle, the closure has been devastating. “There’s no education at all. Everything has fallen apart,” he told Radio Ergo. His six school-aged children now spend their days at home, their dreams of learning fading fast.

The schools, which had been running under trees or in simple shelters, offered a lifeline for rural communities where formal education was once a distant hope. Parents tried to pool money to pay teachers, but their efforts were quickly overwhelmed by the harsh realities of severe drought and economic hardship. Livestock, the main source of income for these families, have grown weak and unproductive, leaving many with nothing to sell or eat.

Abdi’s story is echoed by Fadumo Elmi Abdi, a mother of three whose children also lost their place in school. “The children who dropped out have started engaging in bad habits because they have nothing to occupy them,” she said, expressing deep concern for her children’s future. Her family, like many others, survives on one meal a day and relies on help from neighbors.

With water prices soaring — up to $60 per truckload — and shops refusing further credit, the situation in villages like Qurdubanle and Far-janno has grown desperate. Families owe hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unpaid food and water debts, leaving them trapped in a cycle of poverty and dependence.

According to Hussein Ali Sahal, Adado’s district education coordinator, efforts are ongoing to reopen the schools, but funding remains the biggest obstacle. “If we could recruit new teachers, we could restart classes. We’ll keep working on it, no matter how long it takes,” he said.

The schools were originally established three years ago to give pastoralist children a fair chance at education — a goal now at risk. Without urgent intervention from government and international partners, an entire generation of Somali children in Galmudug may lose their opportunity to learn, thrive, and build a better future for their communities.

Somalia’s NIRA Ends Free National ID Registration: Citizens Urged to Apply Before Deadline

Somalia’s NIRA Ends Free National ID Registration: Citizens Urged to Apply Before Deadline

 

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) of Somalia has announced that the issuance of national ID cards will no longer be free of charge after October 31, 2025.

In an official statement, NIRA urged citizens to make use of the ongoing fee exemption before it expires.

“The National ID Card Registration Fee Exemption Period ends on October 31. Please take advantage of the opportunity and apply at your nearest NIRA Center,” the statement read.

The move has prompted a surge in activity at registration centers across the country as thousands of citizens rush to acquire their IDs ahead of the deadline. Authorities have implemented crowd management measures to ensure smooth service delivery and maintain order.

While NIRA did not disclose the new registration fees, officials emphasized that the national ID system is a cornerstone of Somalia’s digital governance strategy. The government aims to register 15 million citizens by 2029, paving the way for improved access to essential public services, financial inclusion, and transparency in governance.

The digital ID program marks a major milestone in Somalia’s modernization journey, providing every citizen with a secure, verifiable identity that connects them to vital services—from education and healthcare to banking and voting.

As the October 31 deadline approaches, NIRA’s message is clear: register now, and be part of Somalia’s digital future.

Mogadishu Port: Powering Somalia’s Economic Comeback and Regional Trade Integration

Mogadishu Port: Powering Somalia’s Economic Comeback and Regional Trade Integration

Somalia’s largest harbour, the Port of Mogadishu, is fast emerging as a strategic hub in East Africa’s growing maritime economy. As regional trade intensifies among the ports of the Horn of Africa, Mogadishu stands out for its efficiency, modernization, and expanding capacity.

The 2024 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), published by the World Bank and S&P Global, ranked Mogadishu as the most efficient port in East Africa—ahead of regional giants like Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, and Djibouti. It also claimed the second position in Sub-Saharan Africa, marking a historic achievement for Somalia’s maritime sector.

Under the leadership of the Federal Government and the Mogadishu Port Authority, major infrastructure upgrades are underway. A new container terminal opened in August 2025, increasing capacity to 250,000 TEUs annually, easing congestion, and improving vessel turnaround time.

Plans are now advancing for a new state-of-the-art port, located 35 km outside Mogadishu. This ambitious project will include a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) featuring logistics hubs, light industries, and a transshipment area — turning Somalia into a gateway for trade, investment, and manufacturing across East Africa.

The port currently handles up to 2 million tonnes of cargo annually, generating vital federal revenue and thousands of jobs. Once the new expansion is complete, Mogadishu Port is projected to double its income to US$500 million by 2030 and create over 25,000 direct and indirect jobs.

With improved security, regional connectivity, and government-backed reforms, Mogadishu Port is not just rebuilding Somalia’s economy — it’s redefining the Horn of Africa’s role in global trade.

 

Puntland Forces Capture Turkish ISIS Fighter in Ongoing Operation Hilac

Puntland Forces Capture Turkish ISIS Fighter in Ongoing Operation Hilac

Puntland’s Dervish forces have captured a Turkish national identified as Feyzul Hashim Suleyman, a member of ISIS, during a military operation in the Togga Balade area of the Bari region. The arrest took place during the fourth phase of Operation Hilac, a campaign aimed at eliminating ISIS militants entrenched in the rugged Cal-Miskaad mountains of northeastern Somalia.

According to Puntland security officials, Feyzul Suleyman is the second Turkish national captured by Puntland forces in two months. In June, security units detained Hassan Ataar, another Turkish citizen with links to ISIS operations in the same region. Authorities added that two more Turkish nationals — Emre Kemal Yilmaz and Aylin Derya Kaya — remain at large, believed to be hiding in the Cal-Miskaad area.

Gen. Ahmed Abdilaahi Sheikh, a senior Puntland military officer, confirmed that the captured militants are Turkish fugitives who fled their country after the failed 2016 coup attempt, with some reportedly being former members of the Turkish military.

“Intelligence reports indicate that these individuals first joined ISIS in Syria before being relocated to Puntland’s Cal-Miskaad mountains,” said Gen. Ahmed.

He further noted that ongoing investigations aim to uncover the detainees’ potential ties to international smuggling and terrorist networks, including possible links to the PKK.

Security analysts view this arrest as further proof of the transnational nature of terrorism, warning that the presence of foreign fighters in Somalia poses a regional and global security concern. Experts have called for enhanced intelligence sharing and international cooperation to dismantle these extremist networks.

In addition to Feyzul Suleyman’s capture, Puntland forces also apprehended a Somali fighter during clashes with ISIS militants in Togga Balade on Monday — a sign that Operation Hilac continues to make steady progress in neutralizing extremist cells across the Bari region.