Somalia’s Ministry of Defense announced that Mr. Ibrahim Kalaay, who is described as the former District Commissioner of Awdinle area in Bay region, along with 150 militiamen have surrendered to the Somali National Army that is operating in Southwest State.
In a statement the Ministry of Defense of Somalia released, it has further disclosed that the militiamen have surrendered to the Somali National Army and have handed over weapons and combat vehicles after they have voluntarily renounced their armed activities.
A report issued by the Ministry stated, “The former administrator of the Awdinle area in Bay region, Ibrahim Kalaay—-accompanied by approximately 150 militiamen—surrendered at various times today to the National Army of the Federal Government of Somalia operating in the Southwest State in Somalia. This followed from their open defection from the militia misled by Abdiasis Lafatagren forces that had been perpetuating acts of insecurity in those areas in recent days.”
The Ministry further added that efforts are underway in motivating other militiamen to lay their arms down and surrender to the government forces.
The Ministry further revealed that this is part of the plans in ensuring the security and the reconciliation in areas in Southwest State.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defense further called on members still within armed groups to take advantage of the opportunity to reintegrate into the society, highlighting that the government will not tolerate illegal weapons used to undermine the country’s security.
