Army Commander Warns Civilians Over Alleged Al-Shabaab Links as Questions Grow Over Security Strategy

Mogadishu (WDN) – A senior Somali military commander has issued a stern warning to civilians accused of cooperating with Al-Shabaab, declaring that residents of Hiiraan found supporting or obeying the militant group could face severe consequences—including the loss of their homes.

The remarks by Colonel Ali Cageey, commander of the Somali National Army’s 27th Division operating in the Hiiraan region, have sparked debate over the role of the military in areas where the government’s security footprint remains uneven and civilians often live under competing pressures.

In a strongly worded address, Colonel Cageey warned residents of government-controlled areas against maintaining any contact with Al-Shabaab or complying with the group’s directives. “We will take action against anyone found cooperating with Al-Shabaab or carrying out its orders,” the commander said, directing his message particularly at civilians living in liberated parts of Hiraan.

He went further, declaring that residents who leave government-held towns and travel to villages controlled by Al-Shabaab would not be allowed to return freely. He also warned that authorities could confiscate the homes of individuals found to have aligned themselves with the insurgent group.