MOGADISHU, Somalia Jun 12 2012 (Garowe Online) – President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed visited the Afgoye corridor following reports of soldiers abusing residents, Garowe Online reports.              

Transitional Federal Government (TFG) President Shairf, accompanied by a delegation of ministers and government officials visited the town of Afgoye on Monday approximately 30 kms from Mogadishu.

After a spending a night in Afgoye on Monday, President Sharif met with traditional elders on Tuesday, where they discussed issues of abuse by forces and improved harmonization between the elders and the government.  

President Sharif held a press conference in the town following the meeting. At the press conference, he explained the purpose of his visit was to deal with security issues including recent reports of abuse to civilians by forces stationed in the Afgoye corridor.

“We are trying to improve the security in the district and we are here in Afgoye after I was informed that crimes were committed by forces stationed here, and the government will do something about,” said President Sharif.

Residents of Afgoye have accused forces of shaking down residents, committing mass arrests and even robbery. According to local sources in Afgoye, on Friday a young man was shot dead by forces while they were conducting a search and another was robbed by two soldiers.

Despite the government having rid the town of insurgents, citizens are afraid to move during the day.

“Two weeks ago the town was peaceful, but now people stay home for fear of being robbed, even during the day,” said Haji Hussein, an Afgoye resident.

Minister of Defence, Hussein Arab Isse warned of severe consequences to forces caught committing crimes.

“Our forces need to assure the safety and well being of the citizens in Afgoye and the government will deal swiftly and harshly with soldiers who do not uphold their oath,” said Minister Isse.

Afgoye, a former Al Shabaab stronghold was recently captured by Somali and African Union forces, after the terrorist organization Al Shabaab, fled the town.

GAROWE ONLINE