KEY HIGHLIGHTS
The interim southwest state administration will deploy additional security forces to Lower Shabelle regional capital of Marka southern Somalia.
While addressing the local media on August 31, 2015, Southwest State President, Sharif Hassan Sheikh Adan unveiled the fresh plans to send additional troops to Marka.
The news came a day after he toured the town which has popular exotic beaches and white buildings. He was accompanied by the Chairman of parliamentary sub-committee on Defense Hussein Arab Isse.
SUMMARY
Marka has been faced by a huge challenge of Al Shabaab insurgency whereby the militants have made locals to suffer. The militants have made extortion and forced contribution of levies to finance their terror activities.
He noted that Lower Shabelle regional administration will be completed in a step towards addressing the standing challenges in the region.
The President encouraged locals to remain steadfast and cooperate with security authorities by sharing any intelligence that can help eliminate the remaining elements of Al Shabaab militants in Marka among other regions.
He also lauded African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) efforts to oust the Al Shabaab rule in the few areas still under their control.
There has been allegations of civilian killings in Marka, AMISOM has since then formed a joint oversight committee with parliamentary sub-committee on defence in Mogadishu to finalize on the investigations.
