Somalia’s Immigration and Naturalization Directorate has launched an immediate investigation into reports concerning the alleged unauthorized use of Somali airspace and airports. The probe centers around claims that these resources were used to facilitate the movement of a fleeing political figure, following accusations that the leader of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in Yemen, Aidarus al-Zoubaidi, escaped from Aden through Somalia to Abu Dhabi.
In a statement released today, the Directorate stated that the investigation aims to determine whether any violations of Somali laws, procedures, and regulations occurred. The statement emphasized that any such actions would constitute a serious breach of Somalia’s national sovereignty and immigration protocols. It further stressed that assisting fugitives or conducting unilateral operations on Somali territory without legal authorization is unacceptable.
The Somali government has consistently supported Saudi Arabia’s call for dialogue in Riyadh as a viable political path to addressing the situation in Yemen. The Directorate’s statement asserted that any attempt by al-Zoubaidi to circumvent this process, including through alleged external support, would directly contradict ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The investigation follows claims that al-Zoubaidi, along with others, fled by sea from Aden towards the breakaway region of Somaliland. It has been alleged that upon arrival, al-Zoubaidi contacted an Emirati official and was subsequently transported by plane, allegedly under the supervision of Emirati officers. The plane reportedly landed in Mogadishu before continuing towards the Arabian Gulf.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available. The Somali government remains committed to upholding its sovereignty and adhering to international norms and regulations.
