The Al Qaeda branch in Somalia Harakat al Shabaab al Mujahideen continues to exploit roadside improvised explosive devices to target security forces in Somalia. The terrorist group detonated an R-IED near the Somali State House on Saturday targeting the Minister of Agriculture and his entourage. The attack was botched.
On Sunday 17th January 2021, the terrorist group targeted a Somali Army convoy at Taxiile destroying military vehicles and severely injuring/maiming senior military officials. Among the officials maimed include Ahmed Abdullahi Nur, a key player in the US-SNA Military joint operations in Somalia.
In Northern Kenya, the terrorist group has been destroying telecommunication infrastructure and scaring villagers. The group has also engaged in targeted killings of local security units known as Police Reservists. The particular tactic is common in Somalia where the group targets persons believed to be spies. However, Kenya Military and Other Security agencies have remained on high alert throughout Christmas and New Year period besides January 2021. The group has also focused on using R-IED to target border security units and counter terrorism officials. A Spike in targeting of civilians, particularly travelers has been noted but security forces have increased counter operations.
The terrorist group has also increased its activities in Upper areas of Central Somalia, particularly the South West State. The group captured more territory from local forces and subsequently sieged the town of Hudur. The relentless blockade has seen towns being cutoff, food aid burnt, and army positions attacked. Shabaab has for month’s blockaded supplies and aid to the town which is the administrative capital of Bakool area. This led to protests against the Federal Government by local residents.
