Investigation Report: The Arms Trade in Somalia
The Arms Trade in Somalia. Over the past 24 hours, I investigated the origins of a recent influx of weapons. This inquiry revealed a complex and challenging arms trade involving multiple countries and regional actors.
One of the critical questions I sought to answer was why Ethiopia, despite being embroiled in its conflict, is supplying weapons to smugglers. To gain insights, I spoke with numerous individuals involved in the arms trade in Somalia, including about ten smugglers. Among them was a man who goes by the name “Ali Daynuunaay.”
Ali Daynuunaay provided significant information about the current state of the arms trade. He explained that, in the past, most weapons entering Somalia came from Yemen. However, this route has become increasingly challenging due to the heightened presence of NATO, American, Saudi Arabian, and Turkish naval forces along the Somali coast. These forces have made it risky and costly for smugglers to transport weapons from Yemen.
Confronted with these formidable challenges, arms traders like Ali demonstrated remarkable resilience, seeking alternative sources. Initially, they attempted to buy weapons locally within Somalia, excluding government forces. However, the Somali government has tightened restrictions, making it challenging to purchase arms domestically.
Ali and his associates explored other avenues, eventually finding a more accessible and affordable source in Ethiopia. The ongoing Amhara conflict in Ethiopia, along with the situation in Sudan, opened up new routes for acquiring weapons. Ethiopia’s severe inflation has driven its officers to seek hard currency, such as U.S. dollars, leading them to sell weapons at low prices. The arms are obtained primarily from Ethiopia’s Oromo, Amhara, and Afar groups.
The transaction process with Ethiopian suppliers involves an initial payment of half the amount, with the remaining balance sent once the weapons reach their destination without interception by the Ethiopian or Somali governments. This arrangement minimizes the risk for the traders and ensures a steady supply of arms.
Ali highlighted that Ethiopian weapons are cheaper and have an added advantage: Ethiopian suppliers share the risk of losses with the traders. This risk-sharing was evident when a shipment of weapons was seized in Caabudwaaq. Some of Ali’s associates invested in this shipment, but due to complications, only some of the money was paid out. Negotiations are currently underway with the clan that seized the weapons to prevent them from handing over the arms to the government, which would result in a total loss. If the guns remain with the civilians, they can eventually be retrieved, but the risks are high.
This intricate network and the strategies employed by the arms traders underscore the sheer complexity of the illegal arms trade in the region. Ali Daynuunaay’s insights shed light on the ongoing challenges and dynamics faced by those involved in this dangerous enterprise, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle this issue.
