Mogadishu, Somalia — Somali authorities have arrested at least 11 soldiers in Mogadishu for illegally carrying weapons, as part of heightened security measures ahead of the Banadir Regional Council elections scheduled for December 25.
The Banadir Regional Police Command said the soldiers were detained by officers operating from the Central Police Station and will be referred to court for violating security directives put in place to protect the capital during the electoral period.
Speaking to the media, police officials emphasized that the operation was aimed at enforcing discipline among armed personnel and preventing any actions that could undermine public safety or interfere with the voting process.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had earlier instructed security forces to take all necessary measures to safeguard Mogadishu and ensure that the elections proceed peacefully and without disruption.
As part of the tightened security arrangements, Somalia’s Civil Aviation Authority announced that Mogadishu’s international airport will be closed on election day, with all flights suspended for the duration of the vote.
Officials said the arrests and related security measures are part of broader efforts to maintain stability, prevent potential incidents, and guarantee a safe and orderly electoral process in the capital.
