22 Mar 2018 | 02:28 PM UTC
Somalia: Suspected car bomb detonates in Mogadishu March 22
Suspected car bomb explodes on the Maka Al-Mukarrama Road in Mogadishu March 22; initial reports indicate at least six people killed
Event
A suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated in central Mogadishu on Thursday, March 22. According to local reports, the bomb exploded across the street from the Hotel Weheliye on the main Maka Al-Mukarrama Road. Police said at least five people were killed in the blast, but the casualty count will likely rise as emergency services respond to the scene. Details are still emerging.
Context
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, however Al-Shabaab is likely behind the bombing. 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 avoid the area of the blast, remain vigilant for potential militant activity, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
Due to the high threat of terrorism, individuals present throughout Somalia are advised to avoid government and institutional buildings as well as political events due to Al-Shabaab's tendency to target political figures and security forces. Because of extremely poor security conditions, travel should only be considered with appropriate security precautions in place.
