Police in Mandera County have impounded trucks belonging to a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) for allegedly supplying food to Al Shabaab militants.
The three trucks belonging to World Food Programme (WFP) were detained on their way to Dholo, Somalia, after they were suspected of carrying logistical equipment and food meant for the militia group.
Mandera County Commissioner Fredrick Shisia, confirmed the incident saying they would not allow the terror group to strengthen itself then turn to unsettle the country's security.
“We have stopped transiting of WFP consignment because of allegations that there was a meeting between the community and Somalia government to the effect that Al-Shabaab be allowed to pick food and other logistical arrangement undeterred,” Mr Shisia was quoted by Daily Nation.
According to Shisia, the government was determined to secure the country and would not release the trucks until the NGO made proper explanations regarding beneficiaries of the cargo.
“We will not allow or assist anybody from our end if those benefiting on the food programme are militants who later turn against our country.”
“We need an explanation from WFP as to who is the sole beneficiary of the food programme before we allow it to get into Somalia,” the Commissioner added.
In 2015, the government revoked licenses of three NGOs after they were accused of operating against the law and financing terrorism.
The organizations including Muslim for Human Rights (Muhuri), Haki Africa and the Agency for Peace and Development were suspected of sending huge amounts of money to individuals in Somalia without a clear explanation of their intentions.
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