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Somaliland authorities reported that an unexpected confrontation broke out on Monday at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport when civilians escorting former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi clashed with airport security forces. The incident occurred as Bihi prepared to fly to the United Arab Emirates, a trip that airport authorities say they were not informed about ahead of time.
According to officials, the situation escalated when Bihi arrived at the airport with a large convoy that did not follow the usual travel protocol required for high-profile departures. The lack of prior communication created confusion among airport staff and security personnel, who were unprepared for such a large arrival. As Bihi approached the departure area, some of the civilians accompanying him reportedly attempted to enter restricted zones, triggering a confrontation with the officers stationed at the airport.
Somaliland’s Minister of Aviation and Airports Development, Fu’aad Ahmed Nuux, addressed the media shortly after the incident, explaining that the problem stemmed largely from miscommunication and protocol issues. He said the ministry had not been officially notified of the former president’s travel plans, which made it difficult for the airport to prepare the proper arrangements and security procedures typically offered to a former head of state.
The minister emphasized the importance of coordination when it comes to the movements of former and current national leaders. He noted that Bihi is entitled to respect, dignity, and all the standard security protocols afforded to senior figures, but the airport must be informed in advance to ensure these standards are upheld. After the confrontation, Fu’aad said he held a private meeting with Bihi to clarify expectations and discuss how similar problems can be avoided in the future. He explained that both sides agreed on the need for better communication going forward.
Police spokesperson Colonel Abdiasis Sheikh Ismail also spoke about the incident, confirming that the clash occurred when some members of Bihi’s escort tried to force their way into the airport without proper clearance. He stated that security forces acted to maintain order and protect restricted areas, which led to a brief but heated confrontation. According to the spokesperson, the police chief has since ordered the arrest of the soldiers who opened fire during the incident, stressing that any use of force must be justified and will be thoroughly investigated.
Colonel Abdiasis reaffirmed that Muse Bihi Abdi, as a former president, should always be treated with honor and given the respect his office commands. He made it clear that the clash was not between Bihi and the authorities, but rather between airport security forces and some of the civilians who accompanied him and failed to follow the required procedures. The spokesperson added that the police chief has assigned the matter to a high-level committee that will examine the events in detail and determine whether the actions taken at the airport were appropriate.
This incident marks the first time a physical clash involving Bihi’s security detail or accompanying civilians has been officially reported. However, officials noted that there have been earlier signs of tension surrounding Bihi’s travels, including an incident months ago during a previous trip to the UAE. Those earlier issues did not escalate into physical confrontation, but they highlighted concerns about communication and protocol that appear to have resurfaced.
Authorities say the goal now is to ensure that such misunderstandings do not happen again. They stressed that respecting procedures is essential for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of everyone at the airport, especially when dealing with high-profile individuals. With both sides acknowledging the need for improved coordination, officials hope the latest incident will serve as a reminder of the importance of following established protocols to avoid similar confrontations in the future.