Somalia bans UAVs near Mogadishu airport over fear of drone attacks 

MOGADISHU (Adduun) – Somalia’s Civil Aviation Agency has imposed a ban on unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from approaching Adan Adde International Airport in Mogadishu within a 10-kilometer radius. This measure comes amid escalating concerns over potential Al-Shabaab drone attacks, including the threat of booby-trapped devices targeting the airport and nearby camp that is home to foreign diplomatic missions, Caasimada Online news website reported on Monday. 

Authorities announced that only UAVs authorized by the Civil Aviation Agency may operate near the airport, but did not disclose the reasons for the ban. 

The decision follows a UN warning for staff in Somalia to be vigilant about UAVs near the Halane camp, amid concerns that Al-Shabaab may use drones to target compounds, particularly the fortified Halane base within the security perimeter of Adan Adde International Airport. 

The decision follows media reports indicating that the Somali militant group has incorporated UAVs into its operations for surveillance and targeting beyond the reach of its foot soldiers, although the Somali government has yet to confirm the reports. 

In June, CNN reported that U.S. intelligence indicated Yemen’s Houthi rebels were in discussions with Al-Shabaab to supply the militant group with advanced weaponry, including explosive-laden drones. Officials quoted by the network expressed concern that this development could further destabilize the already fragile region. 

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