Somalia Targets Terrorism Financiers in New Strategy to Combat Extremism

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a strategy aimed at eradicating terrorists from the country, the federal government of Somalia has reverted to targeting financiers of violent extremist groups, aiming to restore stability and peace for the sake of development.

For the last two decades, the Horn of Africa nation has been battling the Al-Shabaab militants who are dominant in central and southern regions, with the ISIS threat also growing in recent months due to uninterrupted financial support.

But Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, Somalia’s minister of interior, says the government shall target businesses and individuals financing terror groups, adding that those found culpable could lose business permits.

“Our security forces will take action against anyone found collaborating with terrorist groups. Do not let your wealth destroy your life,” Minister Ismail warned.

To further curb the collection of revenues by the Al-Shabaab, the government has shut down mobile money transfer firms and bank accounts associated with Al-Shabab militants.

Further, social media accounts supporting Al-Shabaab activities and many websites have also been shut down to preventthe  spread of propaganda. The group runs a powerful propaganda machinery through social media and websites.

“Our primary objective has been to combat Al-Shabaab and defeat them across multiple fronts. Today, we can confidently say we have weakened them financially, in the media, ideologically, and on the battlefield,” Ismail said.

He added that the government is aware of individuals who continue to secretly engage with Al-Shabaab.

“I warn our citizens to avoid any dealings with Al-Shabaab. If you are found communicating with or facilitating funds for them, the government will take serious action against you,” he emphasized.

However, this is not the first time the government has issued sa trong warnings against Al-Shabaab financiers and despite the efforts, the group has continually wreaked havoc in the country.

GAROWE ONLINE