Somalia: Mortar attack targeting Mogadishu Airport (MGQ) leaves three wounded April 19 /update 1

Event

A mortar attack reportedly targeted Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) around 19:04 (local time) on Sunday, April 19, leaving three people wounded. Three rounds are believed to have impacted the vicinity of the Medina Gate, damaging two vehicles and wounding one person; another round reportedly hit the Peace Hotel area, outside MGQ, wounding two people. The severity of the victims' injuries was not immediately reported. The mortars were assessed to have been fired from the adjacent Wadajir district.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in and around MGQ over the coming hours. Further mortar attacks cannot be ruled out.

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 limit nonessential movement inside MGQ, 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.