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General Asad Osman Abdullahi, the newly appointed Chief of the Somali Police Force, recently held a high-level meeting with officials from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Mogadishu. This meeting focused on equipping Somali police officers with advanced skills and modernizing their operations to combat terrorism effectively.
The discussions emphasized the crucial role the FBI has played as a key ally in Somalia’s anti-terrorism efforts. The FBI delegation expressed admiration for Somalia’s recent advancements in police reforms, particularly in strengthening operational processes to address security challenges posed by the al-Shabaab group.
U.S. Commitment to Somalia’s Security Reforms
During the meeting, both sides agreed on the importance of continued partnership to bolster security in Somalia. The FBI’s involvement includes training programs that aim to equip Somali police with the latest counter-terrorism techniques. General Abdullahi lauded the ongoing support from the United States, noting that collaboration with international allies is essential for sustainable reforms within the police force.
In October, General Abdullahi also met with Colonel David Haskell, Commander of U.S. Special Operations in Somalia, to discuss strategies to counter al-Shabaab activities. Colonel Haskell reiterated the U.S. commitment to Somalia’s stability, focusing on initiatives that enhance the skills of Somali law enforcement in the fight against extremist threats.
New Leadership Aims to Modernize Somali Police Force
Appointed on 26 September 2024, General Abdullahi took office amid high expectations for enhanced security operations. He immediately implemented a series of security measures aimed at improving safety in Mogadishu, which remains a high-risk area. This included restructuring key personnel across several districts to ensure more efficient responses to security issues.
Before his appointment, General Abdullahi served as Director General of the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) and was a notable contender in the 2019 Puntland presidential race. His experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of Somalia’s complex security landscape, and he is now focused on building a well-trained police force to address both urban and regional threats.
Strengthening Somalia’s Security for Future Stability
The Somali Police Force continues to face significant security challenges, particularly due to the presence of al-Shabaab. However, the recent meetings signal a clear commitment to strengthening security operations, with the FBI’s technical support playing a pivotal role. Both Somali and U.S. officials remain optimistic about ongoing police modernization efforts and are committed to fostering stability in the region.