MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Two police officers have been arrested after a brief exchange of gunfire between security forces at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport and the guards of former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi, officials said on Monday.
The incident occurred as Mr Bihi arrived at the airport to travel to the United Arab Emirates. According to local officials, police at the airport’s main entrance ordered that only the former president’s vehicle be allowed inside, instructing the rest of his convoy – including his security detail – to turn back.
Witnesses said shots were fired after members of the former president’s security team attempted to proceed, prompting an exchange with airport police. Casualties, if any, were not immediately known.
Mr Bihi reportedly chose to walk into the airport alone after the confrontation, where he was also barred from entering the VIP lounge before his departure.
The incident has fuelled a rapid escalation of political tension online, with supporters of both the former president and the current administration trading accusations on social media. Clan elders have also entered the public debate, heightening concerns about the potential for wider unrest.
Somaliland’s aviation minister and the region’s police chief said former presidents are entitled under the constitution to full protocol at airports, including access to VIP facilities and the accompaniment of security and family members. However, both officials insisted the incident arose because Mr Bihi did not provide advance notice of his arrival – something they said had sparked the shootout.
Authorities confirmed that two police officers who opened fire on the former president’s convoy had been detained and that an investigation is underway.
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