Somalia: Al-Shabaab ambush in Bal’ad at least kills eight June 5

Event

Al-Shabaab militants targeted a civilian convoy near Bal'ad (Middle Shabelle region) on Tuesday, June 5, killing at least eight people. Among the victims were two regional lawmakers and their bodyguards. The ambush occurred on the road between the towns of Bal'ad and Jowhar north of Mogadishu. Local sources report that Al-Shabaab militants used rocket-propelled grenades in the attack.

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.