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The Somali Police Force has arrested two men accused of robbing civilians in Mogadishu. The suspects, identified as Mustaf Nisaam Mohamed and Anas Mohamed Mumin, were reportedly government soldiers who were caught in the act while attempting to rob residents in the Siinka Dheer area of Garasbaley district. Both men were wearing police uniforms at the time of their arrest, according to the Banadir Regional Police Command.
Authorities said the arrests were made by officers stationed at Garasbaley Police Station, who acted swiftly after receiving reports of suspicious activity. When police arrived at the scene, they found the two suspects intimidating residents and attempting to steal from them. The officers intervened immediately, disarming the suspects and taking them into custody without further incident.
Police confirmed that the two men are currently being held as investigations continue, and they will be brought before a court to face charges of robbery and misuse of government authority. The Banadir Regional Police Command emphasized that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or affiliation, and that any government official involved in criminal activities will face justice.
In a statement, the police command urged Mogadishu residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement officers by reporting any suspicious behavior or criminal activity in their neighborhoods. Authorities said public cooperation is key to maintaining safety, stability, and trust between citizens and security forces.
The arrests are part of a broader security operation aimed at reducing crime and improving public safety across Mogadishu. In recent weeks, police have increased patrols, particularly in the outskirts of the capital where incidents of theft, armed robbery, and illegal checkpoints have been reported. Security forces have also been targeting individuals impersonating government officers — a growing concern in the city as some criminals use police or military uniforms to carry out crimes.
Residents in the Garasbaley district have welcomed the arrests, saying they hope the incident will serve as a warning to others who use their government positions to exploit civilians. Many have praised the local police for their quick response and continued efforts to restore order in the area.
The Banadir Regional Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Mogadishu remains safe for everyone and said operations to identify and arrest criminals, including rogue security officers, will continue. Authorities also called on senior commanders in the security sector to strengthen internal monitoring systems to prevent the misuse of uniforms and weapons by members of the armed forces.
The Somali Police Force continues to face challenges as it works to rebuild public confidence and enforce the rule of law in a city recovering from years of instability. Despite progress in recent years, Mogadishu still grapples with issues such as corruption, armed robberies, and impersonation of security personnel. However, officials say the latest arrests demonstrate that the government is serious about holding wrongdoers accountable, regardless of their rank or connections.
As Mogadishu residents go about their daily lives, police are urging everyone to play a role in maintaining peace and stability. Authorities believe that through cooperation between the community and law enforcement, it will be possible to reduce crime and make the capital a safer place for all.