Somalia: Explosion reported in Mogadishu February 4

Event

A suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) reportedly detonated near the Mogadishu Mall in Mogadishu on Monday, February 4. Unconfirmed sources report that the device was a parked vehicle and that it has resulted in at least ten people killed and 17 others injured. Further details regarding the incident are still emerging. 

Context

Al-Shabaab continues to control large zones in the south and center of the country and attacks from the group are frequent across Somalia, 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 monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the blast, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.