Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The Ministry of Internal Security has on Tuesday reported that security agencies of the Federal Government of Somalia are closely monitoring attempts to smuggle illegal arms into the country. On July 15, a significant consignment of illegal weapons entering from Ethiopia was seized in the Galgudud region. However, the captured weapons were subsequently stolen by armed militias, falling into the hands of local militias and civilians.

The Somali Government expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting the dangers of illegal arms trade in exacerbating clan conflicts and providing opportunities for Al-Shabaab. “The trade of illegal arms will give an opportunity to Al-Shabaab and fuel clashes between clans in Somalia,” the Ministry stated.

In response, the government has committed to conducting operations against the militias to recover the weapons. It has also called on traditional elders to cooperate with security agencies in restoring control over the arms. Additionally, the government extended condolences to the families and friends of those killed in the incident and wished a swift recovery for the injured.

Mogadishu 24 obtained exclusive details on Monday’s seizure near Abudwak, revealing that local militias intercepted two trucks loaded with weapons and ammunition. The cache included 2,200 AK-47 assault rifles, 260 American-made M16 sniper rifles, 800 handguns, 200 DShK guns, and additional ammunition.

Security experts and politicians have raised alarms over the situation, questioning the UN Security Council’s decision to lift the arms embargo on Somalia six months ago.

Samira Gaid, a security expert and former head of Somali security sector reform, voiced her concerns on Twitter, emphasizing the need for strict oversight to ensure stability.

“The lifting of the arms embargo on Somalia needs strict oversight to protect that gain and ensure safety and stability. The unverified videos from Abudwak are disturbing and allude to a breakdown of security and order. Procurement of weapons and ammunition must remain centrally managed,” Gaid tweeted.

Abdi Farah Juha, Minister of Interior of Puntland State, echoed these sentiments, stating on X, “#Lifting Arms Embargo to Somalia was a #BIGMISTAKE. This fuels clan conflicts and erodes trust. Time to #reconsider.”

The Somali Government has pledged to address the issue urgently and restore order in the affected regions, acknowledging the critical need for coordinated efforts to prevent the proliferation of illegal arms and maintain national security.