Security forces flush out suspected gangs in Mogadishu during night operation

Police in Mogadishu conducted a major swoop Wednesday night targeting suspected armed robbers who have been reported to be targeting members of the public and children in recent weeks.

Kaaraan District police commandant Salad Salad Arale who led the operation said several young men were arrested during the sweep noting some had been identified as suspects in recent robberies in the district and various parts of the city.

Among those also arrested, Arale said were a gang who have been harassing children in the area and robbing people of mobile phones, money and other valuables.

Several cases of robberies have been reported in various parts o Mogadishu in recent months. Some of the cases involve gangs that rob mobile phone shops armed with pistols.

Arale said security forces will continue with operations to bring down the ring of gangs operating in the city.