Somalia: Member of Parliament shot in Mogadishu Nov. 22

Event

A member of the Galmudug state parliament was shot and killed by the bodyguards of a Federal Government Member of Parliament in Mogadishu on Wednesday, November 22. The victim, identified as Mohamed Abdi Guled, was shot near the Villa Somalia and later died of his wounds at the hospital. According to initial reports, the guards mistook his vehicle as a security threat and opened fire. Officials are still investigating the incident. Protests to condemn the shooting may occur.

Context

The security situation remains especially tense throughout the country, particularly in Mogadishu, since Al-Shabaab detonated a mass truck bomb on October 14. At least 358 people were killed and more than 500 injured in the blast.

Earlier this year, security personnel shot and killed the Minister of Public Works and Reconstruction, Abbas Abdullahi Sheikh Siraj, close to Villa Somalia, on May 3. The bodyguards of the Auditor General reportedly mistook him for a militant.

Advice

Individuals in Mogadishu are advised to avoid the area of the incident and remain vigilant. Avoid any potential protests.

Due to the high threat of terrorism, individuals present throughout the country 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.