Mogadishu, Somalia – The Immigration and Citizenship Agency of Somalia (ICA) has stepped up efforts to combat illegal migration, preventing 124 young Somalis from embarking on dangerous journeys to Europe, Asia, and Africa in the last three months of 2025.
The agency, tasked with safeguarding the nation’s youth, has intercepted multiple attempts by individuals aged 18-25 to leave the country through illegal channels. Those found to be involved in human smuggling have been handed over to the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) for prosecution.
ICAS has launched extensive awareness campaigns to educate Somali youth and their families about the severe risks of irregular migration, including drowning at sea, exploitation, and other life-threatening dangers.
“Our mission is to protect the future of Somali youth by preventing them from falling victim to the perils of illegal migration,” an ICA spokesperson stated. “We urge parents to monitor their children’s movements and work with us to stop these dangerous journeys.”
The agency has intensified scrutiny on travel agencies and individuals suspected of facilitating illegal migration. Minors attempting to migrate have been barred from traveling, and investigations are ongoing into businesses involved in human trafficking.
ICA has called for stronger cooperation between parents, government institutions, and Somali business leaders to effectively combat illegal migration. “Only through collective action can we eliminate this threat and provide safer alternatives for our youth,” the agency emphasized.
As Somalia continues to address migration challenges, ICAS (@icasomalia) remains committed to enforcing legal pathways for travel while dismantling smuggling operations that endanger vulnerable young people.