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The United States Embassy in Nairobi issued a security alert on Monday, April 8, 2024, warning of planned terrorist attacks in various locations across Mogadishu, Somalia.
The alert highlighted Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu as a prime target for the planned attacks.
As a precautionary measure, all movements of US Embassy personnel have been suspended for Tuesday, April 9, 2024, according to the statement released.
The US reiterated its level-four travel advisory against travel to Somalia due to multiple security concerns, including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, and piracy.
The alert emphasized the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups in Somalia, warning of potential kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks, often targeting airports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and areas frequented by Westerners.
Various methods of attack, such as car bombs, suicide bombers, individual attackers, and mortar fire, were mentioned as potential threats.
Additionally, the US disclosed its limited capacity to provide emergency services to its citizens in Somalia due to the absence of a permanent consular presence in the country.
This advisory coincides with similar travel warnings issued by the United Kingdom (UK) and Australia regarding increased terrorism threats in Kenya, particularly targeting foreigners.
The UK advised against non-essential travel to specific areas near the Kenya-Somalia border, as well as regions in Tana River County.
Meanwhile, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFA) cautioned its citizens traveling to Kenya about the heightened risk of terrorist attacks and violent crimes in the country.
Both countries highlighted the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab and emphasized the potential for random and indiscriminate attacks against foreigners in Kenya’s major cities.
Despite these warnings, Kenya’s Interior Ministry reassured the public of the country’s safety, asserting that security measures were in place to address any potential threats. Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo urged citizens to carry on with their daily activities without fear.
