Somalia: Al-Shabaab attacks base near Kismayo July 23

Event

Somali National Army (SNA) officials confirmed that Al-Shabaab fighters launched an attack on a base in Sanguni (located approximately 50 km [30 mi] north of Kismayo) on Monday, July 23. The assault began at around 05:00 (local time), with the militants attempting to drive a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) onto the base. Military sources claim the VBIED was destroyed on approach, which was followed up with an infantry assault. Al-Shabaab claimed that its fighters entered the base while the SNA said that the militants were successfully repelled. Conflicting casualty figures have been reported; the military has stated that three soldiers and seven Al-Shabaab members were killed, while Al-Shabaab claimed that at least 27 soldiers died. Details are still emerging.

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 the capital 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.