Somalia: Two car bomb attacks reported in Mogadishu November 23

Event

Online sources have reported two car bomb explosions in Mogadishu in the early afternoon (local time) on Saturday, November 23. Both have reportedly taken place in the city's downtown district; one attack took place near the Safari Hotel. At least two people have been killed. Police have arrested at least one person suspected of detonating one device via remote control. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attacks.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the vicinity of the incident over the next several hours.  

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

Individuals 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.