21 Jan 2018 | 06:32 AM UTC
Somalia: Roadside explosion in Medina district Mogadishu Jan. 21
Roadside explosion near Gaheyr University in Mogadishu's Medina district kills one January 21
Event
A roadside explosion in the Gaheyr University area in Mogadishu's Medina/Dharkenley district has reportedly killed one person and wounded several others on Sunday, January 21. There are no details on the intended target of the explosion. Initial reporting suggests that it was a landmine attack. No group has claimed responsibility for the incident, although Al-Shabaab is highly suspected.
Context
Al-Shabaab continues to control large zones in the south and center of Somalia and attacks from the group are frequent in the country, including in Mogadishu. The group often targets government officials and military infrastructures in a bid to topple the Western- and UN-backed government and impose its own strict interpretation of Islam in Somalia.
Advice
Individuals in Mogadishu are advised to remain abreast of the situation and avoid the area of the incident.
Due to the high threat of terrorism, individuals present throughout Somalia are advised to avoid government and institutional buildings as well as political events due to Al-Shabaab's tendency to target political figures and security forces. Because of extremely poor security conditions, travel should only be considered with appropriate security precautions in place.
