Somalia on High Alert After U.S. Warns of Impending Terror Attack

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Al-Shabaab militants could wage deadly attacks in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, the United States embassy in Nairobi has warned, noting that several locations within the city are targeted by the al-Qaeda network in Africa, which has been active in East Africa.

The statement warns that one of the possible targets for Al-Shabaab is Aden Adde International Airport, or otherwise Mogadishu Airport, which is witnessing an influx of people to the country. The surrounding also hosts several diplomatic missions.

Al-Shabaab has heightened attacks throughout Ramadan but security in Mogadishu was beefed up due to strategic interests. The US Africa Command is actively involved in the war against the militants.

“All movements of U.S. Embassy personnel have been canceled for Tuesday, April 9, 2024,” the security alert said. The alert added, “The U.S. Department of State level-four travel advisory (“do not travel”) for Somalia remains in effect due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy.”

U.S. citizens have been urged to take several measures including reviewing their personal security plans and avoiding large crowds, gatherings, and demonstrations, among other steps, to ensure their safety, VOA reports.

The United States did not specify where the threat is coming from, but the al-Shabab militant group has been carrying out attacks against the Somali government, African Union forces, and other nations supporting Somalia.

Hours after the Nairobi warning, several mortar attacks were reported in Mogadishu but no major injuries were reported. The militants had taken advantage of Ramadan, a Holy Month observed by Muslims, and have been attacking strategic installations in the country.

The US has been supporting the war against terror and its forces are closely working with the federal government of Somalia. Yesterday, the government reported an airstrike in central Somalia which left over 50 Al-Shabaab militants dead.

GAROWE ONLINE