Kismayo (SD) – Authorities in Jubaland Regional State of Somalia has reportedly issued a ban on warning the female religious attire called Niqab, according to local media.

A statement issued Thursday by the Jubaland Security and Intelligence Service urged the public in Jubaland to be wary of wearing the garment, as Al Shabab could also be using the to destabilize the region.

The statement states that wearing the religious scarf is banned in Jubaland for security reasons, authorities fearing that Al Shabab could use them as a disguise.

The regional authorities encouraged the public in wearing a face mask, in order to curb the spread of the Coronavirus.

The controversial Niqab ban is announced during the holy month of Ramadan, as Somalis are in heightened spiritual state.