Somalia PM: We will not be swayed by Al-Shabaab

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Addressing complex security issues including the al-Shabaab menace will not be swayed by cowardly attacks by terror groups, Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre maintains, arguing that the government is committed to mobilizing resources towards the maintenance of peace and stability.

Somalia is grappling with a serious insecurity challenge, with the Al-Shabaab militants heightening activities during the Holy Month of Ramadan, including waging serious attacks across the country. The militants are taking advantage of the ongoing fasting.

While meeting security chiefs on Sunday evening just hours after the Al-Shabaab attack at SYL Hotel, Hamsa Abdi Barre maintained the military will continue targeting the militants in various parts of the country, with the most focus expected to be diverted to the capital, Mogadishu.

Some of the security stakeholders who attended the meeting include Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, the minister for Defence, service commanders, and leadership from the Banadir region. The capital has lately been peaceful until Thursday's attack.

During the meeting, the army commander provided a brief report on the country's security during the holy month of Ramadan, ongoing military operations, and the recent al-Shabab attack on the SYL hotel. Five militants were killed during the attack, along with three soldiers.

Barre, who is the head of government, said security agencies should be more vigilant in keeping the country secure from Alshabaab raids. Eradication of Al-Shabab, he added, is the primary goal of the local troops and those in the foreign mission.

Those injured in the over 13-hour siege have already been airlifted to Turkey for advanced treatment upon recommendation by doctors from various facilities in the capital, Mogadishu. Turkey is a close ally of Somalia.

According to government reports, the Al-Shabaab militants have been neutralized in several parts of the country, following the most recent operations across the country. The operations are set to continue in southern regions.

GAROWE ONLINE