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Somali police have reported that armed militias linked to political opposition figures launched a deadly attack on a police station in Mogadishu this week, freeing prisoners and leaving a trail of destruction. According to the Somali Police Force, the incident occurred on Wednesday at the Warta Nabadda police station while senior officials were on site for an inspection.
Police Commander Maj. Gen. Asad Osman Abdullahi and Banadir Regional Police Commander Brig. Gen. Mahdi Omar Mumin were present when the assault unfolded. Heavily armed militias stormed the facility, shooting their way in and releasing detainees who were being held on serious charges. Officials said that the attackers were loyal to a former national leader and that the assault resulted in deaths, injuries, and extensive damage to the station’s vehicles and infrastructure.
In its statement, the Somali Police Force strongly condemned the incident, calling it a “heinous attack” designed to destabilize the country’s fragile security environment. Authorities emphasized that such actions not only threaten the rule of law but also weaken the collective fight against extremist groups that continue to target the Somali people.
The police also issued a public warning, urging civilians not to be drawn into the schemes of political groups using armed violence to pursue their agendas. “The Somali police warn the public not to mix with groups whose goal is to disrupt the country’s security,” the statement read, cautioning that joining such militias would only create more instability and suffering.
Security forces also raised concerns about the unlawful use of government equipment during the attack. They accused opposition politicians of allowing their supporters to operate armored vehicles and heavy weapons, stressing that such actions undermine national institutions. Authorities have now ordered security agencies to take legal steps against anyone caught misusing military resources or engaging in armed violence against the state.
The incident highlights growing tensions between Somalia’s federal government and opposition leaders, who have been at odds over security, governance, and the direction of the country. Opposition figures accused the government of provoking the confrontation, claiming that their supporters were peacefully engaging with residents and listening to local grievances when security forces intervened. They described the police response as heavy-handed and unacceptable.
However, government officials insist that the militias acted unlawfully by attacking a police facility and freeing detainees facing serious allegations. They argue that such acts cannot be justified under the banner of political disagreement and that the rule of law must prevail.
The Somali Police Force expressed condolences to the families of those killed and injured during the attack, including both civilians and officers. They confirmed that an investigation is already underway to determine how the attack unfolded, who was involved, and what measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The findings, once completed, will be submitted to the relevant authorities for legal follow-up.
Officials urged Somali citizens to resist being manipulated by political rivalries that erupt into violence, warning that such divisions only empower extremist groups such as al-Shabab, which has waged a long insurgency against the Somali state. They stressed that national unity and cooperation with law enforcement remain crucial for building a stable future for the country.
The Mogadishu police station attack has underscored the fragile balance between politics and security in Somalia. As the government faces challenges from both extremist organizations and political rivals, ordinary citizens are being reminded of the heavy cost of instability. Authorities maintain that protecting the rule of law and ensuring accountability are essential steps to prevent the country from slipping further into conflict.