More Than 10 Traders Arrested In Jowhar Town

HirShabelle state security forces have arrested over 10 businessmen in Jowhar town, the regional capital of Middle Shabelle region in the past few hours.

The local traders were accused of abiding by orders from al-Shabaab and have paid out taxation to the Al-Qaeda-linked militant group.

Six people have been detained in Jowhar’s Police station, according to the residents.

HirShabelle state authorities have warned that other traders against complying with al-Shabaab’s orders.

Al Shabaab is reported to have largely collected taxes and Zakah from the traders in the Hiraan and Middle Shabelle regions of south and central Somalia.