Municipal authorities in the Somali capital Mogadishu have announced a ban on the wearing of face masks in public due to security concerns.
A spokesperson for the city’s administration, Salah Dheere, said that wearing of masks was being used to hide identity and facilitate criminal activities.
The masks were widely used during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Authorities also outlawed wearing of hats and carrying of weapons in public transport.
The decision was made during a recent security meeting chaired by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, state television said.
However, traditional sunnah hats worn by men are exempt from the ban.
Al Shabaab attacks, robbery and physical assaults are not uncommon in Mogadishu.