Hiiraan Online

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has banned the use of unauthorized armed vehicles in Mogadishu, ordering security agencies to restrict such movement to official government convoys in an effort to safeguard the capital’s stability.

The president said the move was necessary to prevent political figures and private actors from using armed escorts that risk provoking clashes or undermining public trust. His directive comes amid heightened political tension and reports of opposition-linked convoys moving through the city.

“We have worked tirelessly to restore safety in this city. There was an entire month without a single security incident,” Hassan Sheikh said. “We will not allow anyone to drive combat vehicles around Mogadishu.”

The president made the remarks during his Friday sermon at the Presidential Mosque, where he addressed the nation’s security challenges and urged political leaders to act responsibly.

He also condemned a recent standoff at the Warta Nabadda police station, warning that without restraint from federal forces, the situation could have escalated into a deadly confrontation. Hassan Sheikh said the incidents illustrate the danger of parallel security structures and unauthorized militias operating in the capital.

The Somali Police Force claimed that the September 25 assault freed detainees facing serious charges, including suspected al-Shabaab members and individuals accused of rape, while also damaging vehicles and infrastructure.

In a statement following the attack, police condemned the raid as a “heinous act.” The Ministry of Information similarly accused opposition politicians of attempting to seize control of the police compound.

Federal officials have since deployed armoured vehicles and additional troops to key roads leading to opposition leaders’ homes, citing intelligence about potential mobilization efforts and illegal movement of heavy weapons.

Interior Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail “Fartaag” also vowed to confront any future attempts to destabilize Mogadishu “with an iron fist,” imposing a citywide ban on heavy weapons and armuored convoys not belonging to the government.

Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Hassan Moalim later echoed that message, urging opposition leaders on Thursday to avoid police compounds altogether. “To the opposition, I say: do not visit police stations,” he told reporters on October 2. “Go to the districts, meet the people, and hear their concerns. Visiting detention centers only puts lives at risk.”

The renewed restrictions follows rising political tensions between President Hassan Sheikh’s administration and the Somalia Salvation Forum, an opposition coalition led by former leaders. The group has accused the government of corruption, illegal land sales, and overreach in constitutional reforms. The Forum recently announced plans to challenge the administration in court, claiming that amendments to the 2012 provisional constitution expanded presidential powers and weakened federal autonomy.

The president accused some opposition figures of ignoring the potential consequences of armed altercations.