Somalia Bans Weapons at Mogadishu Airport After U.S. Warns of Al-Shabaab Attack

FILE: Aden Abdulle International Airport in Mogadishu

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has banned the entry of weapons and military vehicles at Aden Abdulle International Airport — the biggest entry to the country, in whose vicinity lies offices to several diplomatic missions and consulates.

The decision is reportedly informed by the secure concerns raised by the Americans, who projected a potential attack in the country following leads and intelligence reports, whose origin was not immediately revealed.

The vehicles and entourage of the president, speaker of the parliament, and prime minister are exempted according to a source. Aden Adde International Airport is one of the most highly guarded government installations in the country.

In a statement, the US said the level four travel advisory remains in effect due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy. The embassy reminded its citizens of terrorists intent to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia.

"They may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting airports and seaports, checkpoints, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and other areas where large crowds gather and Westerners frequent, as well as government, military, and Western convoys," read the statement.

Amidst this, the government of Somalia has increased the number of soldiers in the Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions, where the offensive against al-Shabaab militants is taking place. There is a presence of foreign troops too in the region.

Meanwhile, the Ethiopian Air Force carried out airstrikes against Al-Shabaab targets in the Middle Shabelle region, the first in a long time as the fight against the militants intensified. However, there was no immediate report on the number of casualties.

The strikes come as Ethiopia maintains its position in the African Union Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) following the restoration of relations with Somalia. Ethiopia sealed military cooperation with Somalia recently after months of conflicts with Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE