Somalia Cracks Down on Illegal Weapons

The Federal Government of Somalia is sharing with the public details about the Capital Weapons Control Act, which was passed by the Council of Ministers on April 6, 2023. The purpose of this law is to harmonize the constitutional right of the capital community to have peace and quiet for themselves.

The following are the main points of this law:

1. It is prohibited to carry heavy weapons in the city, such as:

* Army vehicles with guns attached

* RPG-7

* PKM

2. It is forbidden for non-government forces to bring weapons and military vehicles, especially the vehicles known as Abdi Bile pick up and army uniforms.

3. These prohibited vehicles and weapons can only be driven in the city when they are used by an authorized military force.

4. All weapons and military vehicles captured without a license or in violation of this law will be confiscated and will become government property.

5. The registration and issuance of the guard license is the responsibility of the Ministry of Internal Security.

6. It is forbidden for anyone other than the forces in charge of security of the capital to carry unlicensed weapons in the city.

7. The security forces who have the license, when they are on duty, must wear the uniform of the army they belong to.

8. The security forces at the checkpoints must treat the people who use the roads well, and also give the authorities who use the roads their consideration and priority.

9. The authorities and all the different sections of the community that use the roads; They must obey and observe the messages and instructions of the security forces of the capital, and at the same time facilitate the performance of their duties.

10. Licensed troops are instructed to use the roads in accordance with the Road Safety Law.

11. All small arms intended for the protection of officials, the defense of life and property, such as pistols of various types, AK 47 rifles and similar guns must be registered.

12. It is forbidden to fire weapons in the city at any time. If there is a test firing of the weapon the army must give a few hours notice.

13. Anyone who violates the provisions of this law will be subject to the punishment rules of the Armed Forces.

14. The Minister of Internal Security, may issue, when necessary, a procedure detailing the issues mentioned in the provisions of this law.

This law came into effect on April 6, 2023. All agencies, journalists and the public are instructed to comply.

Source: Somali National News Agency