Mogadishu, Somalia – The Minister of Interior Security of the Federal Government of Somalia, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, has announced that security forces have intensified operations against Al-Shabaab, implementing what he described as a coordinated and multi-dimensional strategy aimed at dismantling the group’s operational, ideological, and financial networks.

Addressing the media, Minister Fartaag said that a significant and comprehensive improvement in security has been recorded in Mogadishu. He attributed the progress to enhanced cooperation and intelligence-sharing between national security institutions and the Somali public, emphasizing that sustained community engagement remains critical to consolidating recent gains.

“The capital is witnessing a tangible transformation in security,” the minister stated, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration between citizens and law enforcement agencies.

The minister also issued a firm warning to members of the business community who continue to provide financial support to Al-Shabaab, particularly through payments described as “zakat.” He clarified that the government considers such payments as material support to a designated terrorist organization and confirmed that security agencies have been instructed to take decisive legal action against those involved.

“Any individual found transferring funds to the Khawarij under the pretext of zakat will face strict legal consequences,” Fartaag said, adding that security forces have been directed to apprehend and prosecute offenders in accordance with the law.

Furthermore, the minister disclosed that three individuals accused of leading extortion activities targeting civilians were recently killed in targeted security operations. He identified the individuals as Abdullahi Wadaad, Mohamed Dhubad Xiddig, and Mohamed Sahal Iidle, alleging that they were responsible for threatening residents and collecting illegal levies on behalf of the group.

“In recent weeks, key figures responsible for intimidating Somali citizens and enforcing unlawful taxation have been neutralized,” he noted.

The Federal Government of Somalia reiterated that its campaign against Al-Shabaab and ISIS remains ongoing and is structured around a three-pillar strategy: sustained military operations, counter-extremism and ideological engagement, and financial disruption efforts designed to sever the groups’ revenue streams.

Officials maintain that the integrated approach is intended to ensure long-term stability and prevent the resurgence of extremist networks across the country.