MOGADISHU – Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has confirmed the arrest of five individuals belonging to a terrorist network accused of planning to infiltrate Mogadishu and carry out attacks aimed at undermining the capital’s security and stability.

In a statement released on Friday, NISA said it had been closely monitoring the network’s movements and operational planning, culminating in a coordinated, pre-emptive operation that led to the suspects’ capture before any attacks could be carried out.

The agency reported that the operation resulted in the seizure of various types of explosives, weapons, and vehicles allegedly intended for use in terrorist attacks, underscoring the advanced stage of planning reached by the cell prior to its disruption.

According to NISA, the detainees, identified as members of the Al-Shabaab militant group, will be transferred to judicial authorities to face legal proceedings in accordance with Somalia’s laws and judicial framework.

Security officials emphasized that the operation reflects the government’s continued commitment to proactive counterterrorism measures, aimed at dismantling militant networks before they pose an imminent threat to civilian populations and critical infrastructure.

NISA also commended Somali citizens for their cooperation and ongoing support for national security efforts, urging the public to maintain close collaboration with security agencies and to report any information related to Al-Shabaab or ISIS through the agency’s official communication channels.

The arrests come amid intensified security operations in and around Mogadishu, as authorities seek to consolidate recent gains against militant groups and reinforce public confidence in the state’s ability to safeguard the capital.