The Somali government has claimed that over 50 al-Shabaab militants were killed in a joint operation in Dhabaqle area - between the towns of Masagaway and Awsweyne

 

The Somali government has claimed that over 50 al-Shabaab militants were killed in a joint operation in Dhabaqle area - between the towns of Masagaway and Awsweyne, Galgudud region. The operation was carried out by federal and local forces with support from international partners.

Meanwhile, the al-Shabaab militant group claimed killing 27 government soldiers in Wanniile area, near El-Dheer town, Galgudud region, Monday.

Unclear if the two incidents are related.

Casualty figures given by the two sides have not been independently verified as of now.

FARDC and WAZALENDO claim to have captured a large ADF base

 

The Congolese army, supported by young Wazalendo resistance fighters claim to have captured  a large military base belonging to the ADF.

(watch the video below)

kisoro district:Nyundo sub county chief nabbed bonking another man's wife

 watch the video

Brigadier General Dahir Abdulle Rageh has been suspended

Somalia central prison chief Brigadier General Dahir Abdulle Rageh has been suspended, pending an investigation following the jailbreak attempt by militant inmates.

It was last Saturday that somali security forces foiled an attempted jailbreak Saturday in Mogadishu’s main central prison after militant inmates, using pistols and hand grenades, attacked prison guards.

The militant inmates fired on the guards and threw hand grenades before an exchange of heavy gunfire. It is believed the weapons were smuggled into the prison.

A spokesperson for the Somali Custodial Corps, Abdiqani Mohamed Khalaf, told news reporters in Mogadishu that three prison guards were killed and three others were injured in the attack.

Khalaf also confirmed that five militants were killed and 18 were injured in the attack. A post on social media platform X by the state news agency earlier reported the killing of the five militant inmates.

All five inmates who were fatally shot had been convicted of involvement in militant bombings and smuggling of explosives in Mogadishu. Four of them were on death row, and the fifth inmate was serving a life sentence.

One of the inmates on death row was convicted for his role in multiple attacks, including the raid on the Mogadishu mayor’s office last year and a suicide bombing at a military academy in July last year, according to a security source.

A second inmate who also was on death row was convicted for involvement in the militant attack on the Hayat hotel in August 2022, which claimed the lives of 21 people.

In August 2020, al-Shabab inmates obtained weapons and tried to force a jailbreak at the same facility. Four prison guards and 15 inmates — almost all of them al-Shabab convicts — were killed in the attack. One militant inmate escaped.

In the 2020 attack, the weapons were smuggled into the prison by friends and family who hid them inside food and other items during visits.

The Somali government has appointed an eight-member committee to investigate the incident. Gen. Mohamed Hussein Ahmed is the acting prison chief and will lead the investigation.

Youth in Butembo woke up in demonstration against the advance of the M23 in Lubero.

                                                     (Watch the videos below)

As we had earlier reported(click on the link to read more) READ on saturday,This Monday 15-07-2024, several young people from BUTEMBO demonstrate against the advance of M23 towards the far north.

This demonstration was banned by the VPM of the Interior jacque Shabani who is staying in this part of the country, but this was not respected.

Frontline OSINT and HUMINT report: Fighting erupts between young people Wazalendo and M23 reported in Bweremana in Masisi territory this monday.

 Fights between young people Wazalendo and M23 reported in Bweremana in Masisi territory. Our intelligence sources on site affirm that the M23 attacked several Wazalendo positions since 4 a.m. "They attacked hills overlooking Bweremana, Ndumba towards the Kashingamutwe part. We retaliated and the clashes continue because the enemy wants to overflow, because its mission is to take advantage of this lull", declared a Wazalendo commander who is in The area.

According to reports from civilians ,Clashes also concetrarted in Kamonyi, Butumbalonge and Bifura in the Bashali Mukoto group in Masisi territory. Heavy and light weapons have been heard since 4 a.m. On Sunday, other clashes between the M23 and a group from Wazalendo were reported in Kirumba, in violation of the humanitarian truce.

In the morning of today, a bomb that fell in Bweremana (North Kivu) killed at least 3 civilians, report several local sources. This projectile was launched from the combat zone between the M23 rebellion and the Congolese army and its allies from local armed groups.

(photo of a mother carrying a young baby hit by the bomb)

These fights are taking place on several fronts in Masisi territory, regret several sources on the ground, condemning these attacks which violate the two-week humanitarian truce, which is this Monday at its 10th day.

The clashes are taking place in particular in the Bashali chiefdom and in the vicinity of Bweremana, the Bahunde chiefdom. It was between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. that the M23 rebels launched these simultaneous attacks on the positions of the Congolese army and those of local armed groups in Masisi territory, according to concordant sources. In the Bahunde chiefdom, detonations of heavy weapons were heard between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. local time around the Ndumba-Kiluku-Kihindo-Kashingamutwe hills, overlooking the Bweremana-Shasha axis. At around 8 a.m., a bomb dropped from this area of fighting fell on civilian houses in Bweremana, killing 3 people, all children from the same family. Another was injured. Other fighting is also reported on the Kahira, Kirumbu-Lwama and Kalonge axes, in the Bashali Mokoto and Bashali Kaembe groups. In these areas, Radio Okapi's sources indicate that the rebels would have burned down the houses of some targeted people in the morning, particularly in the village of Butumbalonge. Hundreds of residents are currently on the run. They left this area in the direction of the Bafuna group towards Masisi center, local sources attest.

Bi-Weekly Counter-Terrorism Intelligence Review for East Africa (Kenya & Somalia) Shabaab Al-Mujahideen in Period of July 1st – July 15th, 2024: Tracking and Monitoring Al-Shabaab’s Activity in East Africa

Key Highlights on Terrorism Events in Kenya and Somalia (July 1-15, 2024)

The first two weeks of July 2024 has seen a series of significant terrorist events predominantly orchestrated by Al-Shabaab, the Al-Qaeda affiliated group waging their operations across various regions in Somalia and Kenya. These attacks showcase a range of tactics, including ambushes, suicide bombings, and the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The incidents reflect Al-Shabaab’s continued focus on military and civilian targets to instill fear and assert control.

The high-profile attacks, such as the one on 14 July, where a suicide bomber detonated explosives at a restaurant in Mogadishu’s Boondheere district, and the violent engagement within Mogadishu’s central prison on 13 July, underscore the group’s ability to strike even in heavily guarded areas.

The weapons of choice for Al-Shabaab during this period included IEDs, mortar shells, and small arms. The use of IEDs was notably evident in multiple attacks, such as the assassination attempt on a Somali forces officer in Wajid, Bakool State on 10 July, and the targeting of Ugandan forces in Merca on 8 July. Mortar attacks, like the one in Balow village, Lower Shabelle, which killed ten civilians on 10 July, highlighted the group’s intent to cause maximum casualties and disruption. Small arms and ambush tactics were prominently used in the attacks on military convoys and bases, such as the ambush on a Ugandan military convoy in Lower Shabelle on 11 July and the armed assault on Kenyan forces in Kamboni, Lower Juda on 8 July.

The areas most affected by these repeat attacks included the Lower Shabelle region, Mogadishu, and Gedo region in Somalia, as well as Mandera in Northeastern Kenya. Lower Shabelle witnessed a series of violent incidents, including multiple ambushes and mortar attacks, making it a hotspot for Al-Shabaab activities. Mogadishu, being the capital, remained a critical target, with high-profile attacks aimed at destabilizing the government and spreading terror among civilians. The Gedo region and areas in Northeastern Kenya as greatly experienced significant violence, indicating Al-Shabaab’s reach beyond Somalia’s borders.

Analyzing the pattern of attacks during this period, it is evident that Al-Shabaab strategically targets both military and civilian entities to maximize impact. The attacks on military bases, such as the ones in Damsi district, Lafi, Mandera on 11 July and Bardere City, Gedo on 10 July, indicate a focus on loopholes security forces’ operations. Simultaneously, high-casualty civilian attacks, like the mortar shelling in Balow village, aim to terrorize the local population and undermine confidence in the government’s ability to provide security. The use of varied tactics and the selection of both rural and urban targets suggest a deliberate strategy to create widespread insecurity.

Despite the intensity of these attacks, it is notable that the overall frequency of incidents has decreased compared to the same period in June 2024. This reduction may indicate a temporary tactical shift or resource constraints within Al-Shabaab. However, given the group’s history and the patterns observed, it is likely that Al-Shabaab will continue its campaign of violence, potentially regrouping and planning further high-profile attacks. Continued vigilance and enhanced security measures will be crucial in mitigating future threats and protecting vulnerable regions from further violence.

Militants Target a Café with a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED).

Terrorism Events: July 1st – July 15th

14 July 2024: A suicide bomber detonated explosives at a restaurant near Daljirka Dahsoon in Mogadishu’s Boondheere district, where many young people were watching the Euro 2024 match. Several casualties were reported.

13 July 2024: Al-Shabaab fighters reportedly engaged in fighting inside Mogadishu’s central prison in the Hamarweyn district. Situated in a heavily guarded area near key government buildings like the high court and the Ministry of Justice, the prison was rocked by heavy gunfire and explosions.

11 July 2024: Al-Shabaab ambushed a Ugandan military convoy in the 60 Kms district, Lower Shabelle, and also ambushed a Somalian military base in the Jazeera coastal district of Mogadishu, Somalia.

11 July 2024: Al-Shabaab ambushed a Kenyan military base, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries, in Damsi district, Lafi, Mandera, Northeastern Kenya.

10 July 2024: Al-Shabaab ambushed a Somalian military base, killing at least one, in Bardere City, Gedo, Southwestern Somalia.

10 July 2024: Heavy fighting has been reported in Buula Xaaji, about 120 km northwest of Kismayo, after Al-Shabaab fighters ambushed government forces in the town. Government officials said they repelled the major attack, while Al-Shabaab claimed it killed more than 30 government soldiers and seized military vehicles.

10 July 2024: Al-Shabaab carried out an improvised explosive device (IED) assassination attempt on a Somali forces officer in Wajid, Bakool State, Somalia.

10 July 2024: Al-Shabaab captured four military vehicles in an ambush that killed over 31 Somali forces in Beled Hawo, Gedo Region, Somalia.

10 July 2024: Al-Shabaab mortar shells struck a home, killing ten civilians and hospitalizing thirteen in Balow village, Lower Shabelle Region, Somalia.

9 July 2024, Al-Shabaab ambushed a group of Somali forces in Bariri town, southwestern Mogadishu, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and injuring six others, including the First Battalion Commander.

8 July 2024: Al-Shabaab militants targeted Ugandan forces with an improvised explosive device (IED), killing three soldiers and injuring three others in Merca, Lower Shabelle, Somalia.

8 July 2024: An Al-Shabaab armed assault on Kenyan forces resulted in three soldiers killed and three more injured in the area of Kamboni, Badhaadhe District, Lower Juda, Somalia.

5 July 2024: At least nine government soldiers were killed in Goofgaduud town after Al-Shabaab fighters briefly seized control. Al-Shabaab claims to have killed ten government soldiers and captured prisoners of war. A senior official from the southwest confirmed that regional troops have recaptured the town.

2 July 2024: An explosion targeting a security checkpoint in Mogadishu’s Kaxda district occurred earlier on Tuesday afternoon, injuring two government soldiers.

Notable; On 7 July 2024, at least 15 people were killed as inter-clan fighting intensified for the second consecutive week in the Gedo region, Jubaland, Somalia. The ongoing violence between rival clans has exacerbated the already fragile security situation, contributing to instability and hampering efforts to establish peace in the region. This clash highlights the complex interplay between clan dynamics and broader security challenges in Somalia.

The anticipated exit of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) poses a serious threat to the fragile security landscape in regions that have previously been pacified. ATMIS has played a crucial role in countering Al-Shabaab, providing support to Somali forces, and stabilizing key areas. Their withdrawal could lead to a security vacuum, emboldening Al-Shabaab to reclaim lost territories and intensify their operations. The recent spate of attacks, including ambushes, IED bombings, and mortar shellings, highlights the group’s persistent threat and adaptability. Without the robust presence of ATMIS, there is a significant risk that Al-Shabaab will exploit this opportunity to escalate violence, undermine the Somali government, and further destabilize the region.

From a counterterrorism perspective, the withdrawal of ATMIS necessitates a comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism in Somalia and the bordering counties in Kenya. Enhanced cooperation between Somali and Kenyan security forces, increased intelligence sharing, and bolstering local capacity to respond to threats are imperative. Strengthening community engagement and addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that fuel extremism are also crucial components of an effective counterterrorism strategy. While the exit of ATMIS marks a critical juncture, a coordinated effort involving regional and international partners can help mitigate the impact and sustain the fight against terrorism, ensuring long-term stability in Somalia and the neighboring regions of Kenya.

....THANKS TO  Y I A.........

Breaking!5 dead and up to 20 injured in terrorist car Bomb explosion in a last night attack in central Mogadishu.

Residents in Mogadishu have reported a heavy explosion at a tea and coffee shop near the Unknown Soldier’s monument in central Mogadishu. Two sources suggested a suicide bomber as the cause of the explosion; a third source suggested a car bomb. Casualties not yet known. It’s now just before 11pm in Mogadishu.

Another source closest to the scene has just told us that the place where this bomb blast has happened is called  Daljirka Daahsoon. He has said that they are fears of multiple casualties.Fatalities have been reported ,with confirmation that it was a car bomb outside a tea and coffee shop in Mogadishu. Sources say some customers were watching EURO2024 game between Spain and England when the explosion occurred.

Police in Mogadishu said five people were killed and 20 others were injured in the attack.

In a statement on its Facebook page, the police confirmed that a car filled with explosives parked outside the Top Cafe caused the explosion.

Police said the car bomb went off at 10:28 p.m. local time.

A survivor of the attack told local media that he was watching the game inside the cafe when the explosion occurred.

The survivor, who spoke anonymously out of fear for his safety, said customers sitting outside the cafe suffered the most casualties.

.Another witness said: "Some of the spectators got injured while trying to jump the perimeter wall of the caf, and others got wounded in a stampede.

The attack comes a day after Somali security forces foiled an attempted jailbreak at Mogadishu’s main central prison after militant inmates using pistols and hand grenades, attacked prison guards.

Authorities said three prison guards and five militant inmates were killed in Saturday’s attack.

Wazalendo and M23 clashed in Kirumba today

Fightings were reported this Sunday July 14 in Kirumba in the Lubero territory (North Kivu). Local sources report that Wazalendo fighters launched an attack against the M23 rebels, who have occupied this town for more than a month. Heavy and light weapon fire has been heard since 5 a.m. this morning local time. According to a member of the local Youth,  these shots were towards the Kirumba shopping center, but also the central market and the Birere district. It was around 9 a.m. local time that the population who had holed up in their homes began to come out, when the fighting stopped. No results of these clashes have yet been known. Without giving too many details, the administrator of the Lubero territory, Colonel Alain Kiwewa, says he is aware of these clashes. These fighting are reported in the middle of a two-week humanitarian truce, recommended since July 4 by the United States. This truce “aims to relieve the suffering of vulnerable populations and to create the conditions for a broader de-escalation of the war.

Civil societies and organizations will on Monday start a demonstration against ADF and M23 advances in Butembo and lubero

 

The Citizen Movements and Pressure Groups of Butembo declared the day of 15/7 a day without activities, 20 km walk from Butembo to Musiènene, Lubero territory.Due to the advance of M23 and killings at Béni by ADF .