The Federal Government accuses Laftagareen and his forces of having ties to Al-Shabaab

Mogadishu — The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia has issued a strong warning to media organizations, websites, and social media account managers, accusing them of spreading the propaganda of terrorism and militias that it claims have allied with the extremist group led by Abdicasis Laftagareen.

The ministry stated that this warning is based on the Press Law, the Anti-Terrorism Law, the amendment law against money laundering and the financing of terrorism, the Somali Penal Code, and previous regulations issued to prevent the spread of terrorist propaganda.

The ministry's press release stated that the Federal Government will not accept the use of media and social media to organize attacks, encourage joining terrorist groups, or incite armed violence that disrupts the security of the country and displaces the Somali people.

The ministry also stated that anyone found intentionally using media or social media accounts for such actions will face legal actions. It added that individuals found to be aiding, financing, or encouraging terrorist acts will be pursued under relevant laws, with decisions based on the evidence available and the responsibility of the individual.

Additionally, the ministry stated that anyone found to have intentionally provided financial support to terrorists or participated in their funding will be brought to justice. Finally, the Ministry of Information urged media organizations and social media account managers to refrain from the actions it warned against, and to comply with the country's laws and media ethics.