MOGADISHU, Somalia — Allegations of bribery at Mogadishu airport are raising concerns over corruption, migration networks and vulnerable young Somali travelers.
Recent reports describe alleged corruption at Aden Adde International Airport, Somalia’s main international gateway for arrivals and departures from the country.
Several travelers heading to Egypt said they were allegedly asked for payments despite carrying valid travel documents and approved visas.
“We had complete documents and no problems, but we were still asked for money,” one traveler said, requesting anonymity.
Some travelers said they believed refusing payments could create complications or delays during airport procedures before boarding international flights.
Young travelers heading toward Egypt were reportedly subjected to increased scrutiny, particularly those suspected of pursuing migration routes onward.
According to multiple accounts, the alleged payments demanded from travelers generally ranged between $150 and $200 during processing procedures.
“They ask why you are traveling and whether someone guarantees you,” another traveler said about airport questioning practices.
Those suspected of pursuing irregular migration reportedly struggled finding guarantors and instead allegedly faced pressure to provide requested payments.
Travelers alleged collected payments were transferred through mobile money accounts linked to individuals working within airport screening sections.
The allegations emerge as migration through Egypt and Libya continues attracting Somali youth seeking economic opportunities and alternative futures abroad.
That route toward Europe through Libya and the Mediterranean Sea remains among the world’s deadliest migration corridors for travelers.
Residents also described organized networks allegedly encouraging migration while promising to finance transportation costs from Mogadishu toward Libya.
“They promise travel costs will be covered, but circumstances change after migrants arrive,” one Mogadishu resident familiar said.
Accounts from residents and travelers alleged migrants later face repayment demands after reaching Libya through smuggling networks operating there.
Some migrants reportedly face abuse and recorded videos allegedly sent to families seeking urgent payments from relatives back home.
“When parents receive those calls, they think only about saving their children,” another Mogadishu resident said during interviews.
The allegations renewed broader questions regarding oversight, accountability and procedures within institutions responsible for Somalia’s international travel system.
