Somalia: Roadside IED blast targets vehicle in Mogadishu’s Hodan district August 18

Event

A suspected roadside improvised explosive device (IED) blast wounded at least one person in Mogadishu's Hodan district at around 13:00 (local time) on Tuesday, August 18. The bombing near the Tarbunka Junction is believed to have targeted an armored vehicle carrying government officials, although it is currently unclear whether there were any injuries among the occupants of the vehicle. The individual wounded in the incident is reported to have been a bystander. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack but such incidents in the capital have frequently been attributed to Al-Shabaab militants.

Localized disruptions are likely in the Hodan area in the near term.

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.