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Shaboobs kidnap farmers, pastoralists for ransom
BAIDOA, Somalia -- Somalia’s Al Qaeda-linked Al Shabaab militants have kidnapped dozens of civilians for ransom amid severe setback on the frontline and dire economic situation in a few strongholds in central and southern Somalia, Garowe Online reports.
So they're pretty much acting like any "revolutionary" group does after a while. Terrorist groups like MILF, FARC, Red Guards, all the rest did the same: needs must, as they say, and when El Jefe says he need money for hookers and blow guns and ammo, it's time to shake down the local population.
The kidnap occurred after militants in fighting vehicles poured into Goof-Gadud village which lies some 20km from Bay regional capital of Baidoa.

Local official, Ahmed Mohamed Adan said that 43 people, almost all nomads and farmers are in the hands of Al Shabaab terrorists.

“The 43 people are being held for $500 ransom, they are innocent civilians,” noted Adan, calling for their unconditional release.

Al Shabaab is believed to have benefited from the illicit trade, forging partnership with profiteers and allegedly selling charcoal in sacks on Mideast markets.
Posted by: Steve White 2015-01-28
http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=409395