Armed militia loot Somalia ambassador's residence in Sudan

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Armed militia looted Somalia's ambassador's residence in Sudan, the envoy confirmed in a statement, in an incident which comes at the time the northern African state is experiencing political turmoil following differences between two rival military generals who are fighting for the control of the country.

Mohamed Sheikh Isak told the state media that his residence in Khartoum was targeted by armed militia, who stormed and looted property, besides destroying cars that were parked in the compound at that time. The country is currently facing lawlessness.

In a statement, Amb. Isaac condemned the “barbaric act” of looting his residence in Khartoum and taking the cars of the Somali Embassy. He stated that the act was carried out by armed militias who do not respect international rules and the sanctity of diplomatic institutions.

"I condemn the barbaric act of looting my house in Khartoum, Sudan, and taking the vehicles of the Somali Embassy," said the envoy, who played a critical role in evacuating hundreds of Somali citizens who were held hostage in Sudan during the violence which led to deaths of thousands of people. "This barbaric act was carried out by armed militias who do not respect international rules and the sanctity of diplomatic institutions, which is beyond traditional ethics," added the envoy.

Ambassador Isaac expressed his concern about the safety and security of diplomatic personnel and institutions in Sudan, and called for immediate action to restore order and protect the diplomatic mission, state media reported, noting the current situation which has almost grounded the development of the country.

The looting of the Somali embassy highlights the challenges facing diplomatic missions in Sudan and underscores the need for urgent action to restore peace and stability in the country, state media emphasized. This comes as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attends Inter-Governmental Authority and Development meeting in Djibouti.

Recently, the international community warned local leadership in Sudan over escalating violence, with the US threatening to sanction warring generals. Sudan has been struggling with instability, for over three years after the ouster of strongman Omar al-Bashir who ruled the country for several years before facing civilian rebellion.

GAROWE ONLINE