Phone data service cut in parts of Somalia after threat from extremists fearing US spy powers
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Residents in parts of Somalia under militant control say at least one cellular telephone company has shut down data services in response to a threat from al-Qaida-linked extremists.
Al-Shabab gave phone companies until Friday to close down data services over fears the U.S. can tap into data and target militants.
Liban Farah, a resident in an al-Shabab-controlled area, said militants started searching phones on Saturday to see if they are receiving data. Farah said offenders are being jailed.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Several residents who insisted on anonymity for fear of reprisal attacks said Hormuud shut down its data service. It's not clear if a second, smaller company did the same.
People can make calls and send text messages but cannot receive email or access the Internet.
Data is still available in government-held areas.