Somalia: Two bombings in Mogadishu July 2

Event

Seven people were reportedly wounded by a roadside bomb placed at the Benadir Junction in the capital Mogadishu on Monday, July 2. Three other people were injured earlier on the same day in the explosion of an under vehicle improvised explosive device, planted on a government official's car near the Sinai junction of the capital. No group has claimed responsibility of for either attack, although Al-Shabaab is highly suspected. Furthermore, on July 1, five civilians were killed in mortar attacks perpetrated near the Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu; these attacks have been claimed by Al-Shabaab.

Furthermore, on July 1, five civilians were killed in mortar attacks perpetrated near the Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu; these attacks have been claimed by Al-Shabaab.

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

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.