Mogadishu (BARTAMAHA) — In an early morning cordon and search operation in Mogadishu’s Wadajir district, Somali Government forces with the support of African Union troops recovered automatic machine guns, RPG launchers, grenades, vehicle number plates and an assortment of ammunition. 20 militiamen were also arrested when the forces overpowered them.

The operation followed a tip off that there was an arms cache at a location close to the former District Commissioner, Ahmed Hassan Addow’s home. The forces closed in at the location and they were fired at by local militia belonging to the former DC.

The AMISOM Force Commander Lt. Gen. Silas Ntigurirwa says such operations are part of the wider efforts to improve security in Mogadishu and Somalia in general.

“The message is to call upon all Somalis, all institutions to support the efforts and sacrifice AMISOM is making for the peace and stability of Somalia. AMISOM will continue to fight against everyone who will try to attack the forces and the attackers are purely Al- Shabaab”

The Force Commander congratulated the forces for the operation saying the recovery has saved Somali lives as the arms would have been used against them.

Brigadier General Dick Olum and Sector one Commander applauded the Somali people for providing key intelligence information that has facilitated today’s operation to take place.

“This operation today was actually not intended at the former DC’s location it was a different area within Medina but I would say also thank God they attacked us but when they attacked us we managed to get all this, this was really not our target so it was a blessing in disguise I think it was a very good chance for AMISOM that we could pick all this and we shall ensure that this cordon and search continues without any hindrance”.

The cordon and search operation was conducted by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Somali army and Police supported by AMISOM military and police. The joint operations play a significant role in fighting terrorists.

AMISOM reiterated its continued commitment to working with NISA as Somalia moves to stabilize the country and rebuild its institutions.

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