The group has accused the BBC of broadcasting “baseless and untruth materials”. Al-Shabab also accused the BBC of slandering what they called “the Mujahedeen”, as well as, of instigating hostility.
The statement said it was the right time to cease all operations of the BBC “in order to recover from the psychological damage the station has inflicted on the Islamic population of Somalia”.
In the statement, Al-Shabab also ordered local stations that carry broadcasts of international stations such the BBC and VOA to stop airing those programs with immediate effect. Al-Shabab ordered the local stations to cancel contracts with VOA and BBC.
Last week, the other militant group, Hisbul Islam has given the radio stations a ten-day ultimatum to stop broadcasting music and songs. This deadline expires on Monday next week. Hisbul Islam threatened it would take action against any station that ignores implementation of this order.
Al-Shabab Closes BBC Stations, Threatens International Broadcasts Including VOA
The Somali militant group Al-Shabab has closed down BBC FM stations in the areas under their control. In a statement released to the media, Al-Shabab also ordered confiscation of equipments belonging to the BBC