Somali Intelligence Agency closes 14 alleged Al-Shabaab affiliated websites

Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced a significant crackdown on online platforms linked to Al-Shabaab, closing down 14 websites and disrupting communication channels. The operation also included the closure of twenty WhatsApp groups and the suspension of 2,500 phone numbers.

According to NISA, the targeted websites were allegedly involved in promoting and supporting the activities of the extremist group Al-Shabaab.

The blocked websites include Alamada, Somalimemo, Radi Al-Furqaan, and Ameer Noor. However, it was noted that Somalimemo remained accessible as of this morning, raising questions about the effectiveness of the agency’s actions.

NISA’s move to shut down these websites is part of a broader effort to curb the online presence and influence of Al-Shabaab, an Islamist extremist group operating in the region.

The closed websites are believed to have disseminated propaganda, recruitment materials, and facilitated communication among the group’s sympathizers.

The intelligence agency also targeted communication channels by closing down twenty Whatsapp groups and disabling 2,500 phone numbers associated with individuals believed to be connected to Al-Shabaab. This measure is aimed at disrupting the group’s ability to coordinate and plan activities through encrypted messaging platforms.

While NISA did not provide specific details about the nature of the content on the closed websites, the agency emphasized the importance of these actions in preventing the spread of extremist ideologies and maintaining national security.

The government has repeatedly expressed concerns about the influence of Al-Shabaab, both online and offline, and has intensified efforts to counter the group’s propaganda and recruitment efforts.

Critics, however, raise concerns about potential infringements on freedom of speech and expression, urging authorities to ensure that the measures taken are proportionate and in line with legal standards.

The accessibility of Somalimemo, despite the reported closure, has also sparked discussions about the efficacy of NISA’s operation and the challenges in fully eradicating extremist content from online platforms.