Somalia: Explosion reported in Mogadishu January 29

Event

A suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated near Jubba Junction in Mogadishu on Tuesday, January 29. At least one person was killed and three others injured. Local sources also report that routes in the immediate area, including those to Villa Somalia (President Palace), remain cordoned off. 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.