Somalia: Puntland lawmaker assassinated in Galkayo May 23

Event

Al-Shabaab is suspected of assassinating a Puntland regional Member of Parliament (MP) in Galkayo (Puntland region) on the night of Wednesday, May 23. Abdihakim Moalim Dahir and one of his security guards were shot and killed outside of the Classic Hotel in central Galkayo. Security forces launched an operation to apprehend the gunmen and an investigation is ongoing as of Thursday, May 24.

Context

Al-Shabaab continues to control 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 Western- and UN-backed government and impose its own strict interpretation of Islam in Somalia.

Advice

The security environment in Somalia remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.