In a tragic incident in central Somalia, at least five people were killed during an ambush on a convoy by militiamen who seized heavy weapons. This occurred just seven months after the lifting of a decades-long arms embargo in the region.
The convoy, with a security escort, was attacked near Abudwaq by militiamen from a local clan who overpowered the security forces. The weapons, which included machine guns and anti-aircraft weapons, originated from Ethiopia.
According to Ahmed Shire, a security adviser, the incident resulted in casualties on both sides as the weapons fell into civilian hands. Analyst Rashid Abdi noted the severity of the situation, suggesting that some weapons could end up in the hands of Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda affiliate.
The lifting of the arms embargo in Somalia was criticized by many as a strategic mistake, as it could potentially escalate security threats in the region. Despite government claims that it would help confront security challenges, the incident highlights the risks involved in such a decision.
With ongoing conflicts and the withdrawal of AU peacekeepers, the situation in Somalia remains fragile, with clan-based militias adding to the complexity of the security landscape.
Source: Reuters