Somalia: Al Shabaab militants claim attack on Elite Hotel in Mogadishu August 16 /update 1

Event

Al Shabaab have claimed responsibility for a complex attack on the Elite Hotel situated in the Shangani district of Mogadishu (Banadir region) along Lido Beach on Sunday, August 16. Local sources report that a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosion device (SBVIED) detonated at 17:05 (local time) outside the hotel, at least six militants then began shooting as they stormed the establishment. Security forces responded, cordoned off the area, and engaged in a firefight with the attackers for several hours. The number of casualties is not yet verified; early reports indicate that at least 28 people were wounded and ten others killed, among them government officials. Local reports confirmed the incident was concluded around 22:00, after security forces had killed the attackers.

Heightened security and localized disruption should be expected in the vicinity of the hotel in the immediate term.

Context

Al-Shabaab continues to exercise effective control over 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 West- and UN-backed government and impose its own strict interpretation of Islam in Somalia.

Advice

Those in Mogadishu are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Somalia remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.