Somalia Investigates Airspace Breach by Yemen STC Chief
The Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) disclosed that multiple government entities are investigating whether Somali airspace and aviation facilities were exploited to transport a "fugitive political figure" without proper legal clearance or official permission.
Should evidence substantiate these allegations, officials characterized the incident as a grave violation of Somalia's territorial integrity and immigration statutes, emphasizing that enabling fugitives or conducting unilateral operations within Somali borders without consent remains "unacceptable."
Mogadishu continues backing Saudi Arabia's diplomatic invitation for negotiations in Riyadh as the "appropriate political process" for addressing Yemen's crisis, the ICA noted.
Any attempt by al-Zubaidi to "evade this process, including through alleged external support, would directly contradict ongoing diplomatic efforts," the statement added.
The agency cautioned that verified infractions would constitute breaches of bilateral treaties and international legal frameworks.
"Appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with the findings of the investigation to ensure full accountability for any confirmed violations," officials declared.
The Saudi-led coalition previously reported that al-Zubaidi disregarded directives to travel to Riyadh for discussions, instead deploying military assets toward Al-Dhale in southwestern Yemen.
Coalition spokesperson Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki subsequently claimed al-Zubaidi escaped Aden via maritime routes before departing the region by aircraft—an assertion the STC rejects, maintaining its chairman remains operational within the city.
The STC has offered limited commentary, merely affirming that its leader continues active involvement while dismissing the allegations.
Last week, Saudi Arabia accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of directing STC troops to execute military maneuvers along the kingdom's southern frontier in Hadhramaut and Mahra. Abu Dhabi refuted the charge.
STC combatants captured the two provinces—comprising nearly half Yemen's landmass—last month, though government troops successfully reclaimed them earlier this week.
The STC has persistently advocated for southern Yemen's independence, contending that successive administrations have systematically excluded the territory from political and economic participation. Yemeni officials dispute this narrative and remain committed to preserving national territorial integrity.
Northern and southern Yemen merged on May 22, 1990, establishing the Republic of Yemen.
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