Somalia: Security Forces in Waajid Complain of Unpaid Salaries

Authorities and security personnel in Waajid District of Bakool region have voiced concerns over unpaid salaries. Police and intelligence officers stationed in the district have reportedly been working voluntarily for the past year without receiving any financial compensation from the South West State administration.

Police Station Chief in Waajid, Lieutenant Iftin Aden Ali, disclosed that the district’s police force, established about a year and a half ago, has yet to receive any salaries or benefits from the South West State government.

He emphasized the critical role these officers have played in maintaining security and countering Al-Shabaab fighters attacks in Waajid.

“These officers, both men and women, are struggling to pay rent and have received no salaries or allowances, not even an identification number similar to national security forces,” said Lieutenant Ali.

The district’s governor, Mohamed Macalin Yusuf, has called on both the Federal Government and South West State authorities to address the issue and ensure that the police and intelligence officers receive their due compensation to continue safeguarding the district and its surrounding areas.

As of now, there has been no official response from the South West State administration regarding these allegations from Waajid’s police command.