After Surviving Bomb Attack, Somali President Calls for Intensified Fight Against Al-Shabaab

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud who survived a bomb attack on 18th March in Mogadishu has urged the Somali National Army (SNA) on the frontlines to fight Al-Shabaab with determination, adding that victory is in the offing given their resilience on the battlefield.

While addressing soldiers on the frontlines within Middle Shabelle, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said the country has 'sacrificed' resources to promote the safety of the people, arguing that the response has been overwhelming.

Although the military has the responsibility to protect members of the public, he said, the civilians also must report to security agencies any suspicious activities to avoid loss of innocent lives across the country.

"The enemy is one and it’s the Al-Shabaab militants, so fight even with your tongue,” President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said during his address to the military officials and soldiers in Middle Shabelle.

“There is no middle ground, you are either fighting the al-Shabab terrorists or you are one,” the Commander in Chief added.

This comes after PM Hamza Barre announced his cabinet will move to the frontlines in the final push against Khawarij, urging Somalis to unite and support the fight. He praised ongoing military operations and vowed to eliminate the Khawarij threat.

Operations against the group have intensified in Middle and southern regions across the country, with the military managing to eliminate dozens of the militants. Dozens of fighters have also been arrested in the process by security forces.

Elsewhere, the Somali National Army thwarted an Al-Shabaab attack and landmine plot in Wajid, on Friday. The 95th unit captured Abdicasis, a key operative, and neutralized explosives near the airport and city. Brave efforts by security forces saved lives and protected the community, state media reports.

GAROWE ONLINE