The Federal Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport said it is aware private business information is being divulged to Al Shabaab terror group.
In a statement released today, the ministry said that it contacted security agencies to investigate the citizens’ complaints.
The ministry warned all shipping agents and port stakeholders that the government would seize companies’ assets that assist Al Shabaab in obtaining information.
“The ministry is warning all shipping agents and port stakeholders caught directly supporting the Khawarij Al Shabaab’s Terrorist group. The federal government will bar them from working and take other punitive measures in accordance with the country’s laws.”
Earlier this week, the Minister of Commerce of Somalia said he reported four import companies that are believed to be working closely with Al Shabaab in collecting and extorting money from businesses.
The names of the companies have not been released, but the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi, has called on the Minister of Ports to revoke their licenses.
This decision is part of a broader government effort to cripple Al Shabab’s sophisticated financial network, which is said to bring in more than $100 million annually.
The US government imposed sanctions Al Shabaab financial intermediaries on Monday. These individuals serve as the group’s principal negotiators with local businesses in Somalia.
