MOGADISHU, Somalia — A brief confrontation occurred today between Somali government forces and opposition-aligned personnel after leaders visited Warta Nabadda police station.
Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and opposition politician Abdirahman Abdishakur went to the station while Banadir Police Commander spoke to media.
The visit followed reports that officers had assaulted residents in the Sinay neighborhood earlier, provoking opposition leaders to respond and confront the police.
Opposition leaders attempted to enter the station, resulting in a short clash with government forces and personnel accompanying the visiting politicians.
Gunfire was exchanged, with some rounds reportedly striking jail cells where prisoners were held inside Warta Nabadda station.
The incident comes amid worsening political tensions and escalating forced evictions from public land, reportedly sold illegally to private individuals.
Videos circulating online show elderly men and women being beaten by officers, treated harshly and without regard for basic human rights.
Authorities have arrested some officers involved, following public outrage over the brutal actions against civilians in the Sinay neighborhood.
