31 Dec 2019 | 03:33 AM UTC
Somalia: Al-Shabaab claims December 28 Mogadishu car bomb /update 4
Al-Shabaab spokesman confirms groups' responsibility for the December 28 Mogadishu car bomb attack; further attacks possible in the near term
Event
On Monday, December 30, a spokesman for Al-Shabaab confirmed that the group was responsible for the car bomb attack in Mogadishu that took place at approximately 08:50 (local time) on Saturday, December 28. The attack killed at least 81 people, and injured over a hundred others. An estimated 25 people are still missing as of Monday.
Further attacks by Al-Shabaab, as well as military counter-attacks, are possible throughout Somalia in the near-term.
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 Somalia 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.
