Somali President Vows Crackdown on Illegal Arms Trade Amid Rising Tensions with Ethiopia

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has pledged zero tolerance for illegal arms trading, issuing a stern warning just hours after reports emerged that the Puntland regional state had received a shipment of weapons from Ethiopia. Speaking at the mosque in the State House following Friday prayers, the President emphasized that the Somali government has enacted strict regulations prohibiting the import, export, and trade of weapons, and warned that anyone found violating these laws would face severe legal consequences.

“We will not tolerate the black market weapons business,” President Mohamud declared, reaffirming the government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal arms activities that threaten national security. His remarks come at a critical time, as relations between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa have become increasingly strained and allegations that Ethiopia has supplied arms to Puntland without authorization from Somalia’s federal government.

The Somali government had previously condemned Ethiopia for undermining Somalia’s sovereignty by facilitating arms shipments . The President’s strong stance on the issue signals the federal government’s determination to prevent further escalation and maintain control over national security.

In addition to addressing the arms trade, President Mohamud called for national unity, urging the Somali people to stand together against external threats and refrain from engaging in divisive rhetoric. He specifically highlighted the dangers of “hate speech and incitement,” warning that such language could lead to violent conflict.

“The conflict that starts with words can lead to bloodshed,” the President cautioned, referencing recent inflammatory remarks made by Bashir Moalim, Director General of the Ministry of Aviation. Moalim had referred to protesters in Hudur and Wajid towns in Southwest State as “children of Ethiopian soldiers,” a statement widely viewed as provocative and inciting violence. The DG’s comments have worsened tensions between Southwest State and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), further complicating the political landscape.

President Mohamud’s Friday address, set against the backdrop of heightened tensions with Ethiopia and internal divisions, underscores the urgency of maintaining peace and unity in Somalia. His call for solidarity and respect for the rule of law is intended to prevent further destabilization and promote national cohesion in the face of external challenges.