Somalia: Mortar and VBIED attacks reported in Mogadishu August 30 /update 1

Event

Suspected Al-Shabaab militants carried out a mortar attack and a subsequent vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack near Villa Somalia (presidential palace) in Mogadishu on Thursday, August 30, wounding at least six people. The incidents come after a US airstrike reportedly killed three Al-Shabaab militants some 40 km (25 mi) southwest of Mogadishu on Monday, August 27, and after Al-Shabaab claimed an attack on a government-allied militia compound in Huriwa district (Mogadishu) on Tuesday, August 28.

Additional Al-Shabaab attacks are possible in Mogadishu in the coming days; further US airstrikes targeting suspected Al-Shabaab militants are expected in Somalia in the near-term.

Context

Al-Shabaab continues to control large zones in the south and center of Somalia and attacks from the group are frequent across the country, including in Mogadishu. The group often targets government officials and military infrastructure in a bid to topple the Western- and UN-backed government and impose its own strict interpretation of Islam in Somalia.

Advice

Individuals in Mogadishu are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the vicinity of Villa Somalia until the situation normalizes, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Somalia remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.