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The Somali government has ordered telecommunication firms, money transfer banks and other business entities to register their businesses and clients with the authorities to curb money laundering and terrorism financing, state-owned Somali National TV has reported.
In a news conference on Tuesday, Information Minister Daud Aweis also asked mobile service providers to register clients and collect their personal details including fingerprints and photographs.
The minister said the government’s National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Committee has also warned the public against aiding militants.
“The public are asked to avoid any steps that may aid terrorism – particularly the crimes of money laundering and financing of terrorism, which are major criminal acts,” Mr Aweis said.
He asked all businesses to register with the government and warned that any business or properties found to be associated with the militants will seized.
The minister added that licences would be revoked for any company that violates the government directives.
He said the move was aimed at cutting the revenue streams of militants and prevent terrorism-related money laundering.
On Tuesday, the spy agency warned traders against travelling to al-Shabab-controlled areas in response to summons from the militant group.