On Saturday, 3 January 2026, a new commander was appointed to the Mogadishu Port Police Station. Mr. Mahad Abdihakin Omar, a police colonel, will lead the station. He has served many years in the Somali police and is recognized as one of the most prominent commanders involved in Mogadishu police operations in recent years.
The Mogadishu City Port is Somalia’s main port, handling the largest volume of both local and international shipments. Its logistics are managed by Albyrak Company, a Turkish firm that has invested heavily in the port over the past ten years. The port is a key hub for trade and commerce, and it also serves as one of the main sources of revenue for the Somali federal government through taxation and customs duties.
The commander of Mogadishu Port Police Station holds a critical position that combines national security responsibilities with oversight of international trade.
The role involves managing a large police team tasked with ensuring the safety and security of the port, preventing smuggling, monitoring cargo inspections, and enforcing customs and immigration regulations. Because the port handles international shipments and involves foreign companies and governments, the commander must coordinate closely with port authorities, private logistics firms, Somali federal agencies, and international stakeholders.
Strong administrative skills are essential for supervising staff, planning operations, and ensuring that both experienced and newly recruited officers adhere to police regulations and security protocols. The position also demands diplomacy, as the commander interacts with foreign shipping companies, international inspectors, and embassy representatives, balancing Somali law with international agreements and contracts.
The reasons behind the recent change in command are not clear. It is uncertain whether the decision reflects political interests or internal disagreements within the Somali police leadership. Sources indicate that several key police positions in the Banadir region may soon be assigned to younger commanders, including some recently promoted colonels who may have limited experience in police regulations and operations.