#Al-Shabaab militants

[kenyagist]

Al-Shabaab Militants Carry Out Gruesome Attack in Kenya, Leaving Five Civilians Dead, Including a Student

In a horrifying incident, five innocent Kenyan civilians lost their lives as al-Shabaab militants launched a vicious assault on two villages in Lamu County on Saturday evening. The police, along with witnesses, have confirmed the distressing events that unfolded. The attack occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. when the armed assailants stormed the villages, forcibly dragging the victims out of…

[somalilandcurrentnews]

Somalia’s Liberated Areas: A Call for Internationally -Mobilized Stabilization Fund

Over the last month or so, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (HSM) has been leading the fight against Al-Shabab from the frontlines as the first-round offensive against the terrorists is nearing its completion. With the second-round offensive that will shift the battle to the southern regions of Jubaland and South-West State now on the horizon, attention is turning to the stabilization of large…

[ptseti]

KEYAS SUPREME COURT STOPS THE HAITIAN OCCUPY

Watch the moment today when Kenya’s High Court judge quashed the government's attempt to deploy 1,000 cops to Haiti. Justice Chacha Mwita termed the move unconstitutional and, therefore, null and void. This ruling is the culmination of a back-and-forth in the corridors of justice to the president’s frustration. The United States had set aside $200 million to foot the bill.

The deployment has been unpopular both in Kenya and in Haiti. The sentiment has been that Kenya’s police should deal with insecurity at home, particularly in the country’s North Eastern Province, where the militant group Al-Shabaab operates.

In Haiti, the memory of previous interventions is all too fresh. UN peacekeepers have been accused for almost two decades of sexual abuse, killings and for starting a cholera epidemic that killed more than 10,000 Haitians, according to conservative estimates.

[necarion]

According to a study by the Watson Institute at Brown University, civilian airstrike deaths in Afghanistan increased by 330% during the Trump presidency. And the Watson study largely credits this increase to a Trump regulation that relaxed the rules of engagement for airstrikes at the beginning of his presidency. As a result, the US military bombed more indiscriminately and more civilians died. Or, as the Watson study says quite bluntly, “When the United States tightens its rules of engagement and restricts air strikes where civilians are at risk, civilian casualties tend to go down; when it loosens those restrictions, civilians are injured and killed in greater numbers.” This wasn’t exclusive to Afghanistan. Airstrikes under Trump increased sixfold in Yemen, and there were more civilian deaths from airstrikes in Somalia under Trump than under Bush and Obama combined. Trump also oversaw a 200% increase in airstrike deaths in Iraq and Syria. In another move demonstrating how little Trump cared about airstrikes striking civilians, he removed an Obama-era rule that mandated reporting on civilian deaths from airstrikes. Conversely, Biden reversed Trump’s free-for-all airstrike policy, and tightened strike rules to ensure a “near certainty” that any strike does not injure civilians. He also banned signature strikes, a form of drone strike that targets groups of people and that is frequently cited as the form of airstrike resulting in the highest civilian casualties. As a result, in the first year of his presidency, Biden “nearly ended the drone war.” Biden did increase airstrikes in Somalia in 2022 in response to a wave of fighting from al-Shabaab militants. But overall, deaths from airstrikes have plummeted under Biden from the historic peaks they reached under Trump. Again, this isn’t an issue that receives substantial coverage. But airstrikes are a significant part of modern US military operations. More humane policies that lessen the impact airstrikes have on civilian populations make a major difference.

(From one of the linked articles, from the end of 2021):

Where Trump oversaw more than 1,600 air and artillery strikes in Iraq and Syria during his first 11 months in office, Airwars reports just four during Biden's term so far. Strikes in Somalia fell from roughly 75 last year to fewer than 10 this year, with no civilian casualties. And in Yemen, the annual total dropped from about 18 to maybe four, with fewer than 10 casualties of any kind. (Precise figures are unclear because some strikes are classified.)

I didn't know how stark these statistics were. Obviously there have been additional strikes in Yemen since this this was published. But also, I think there have been almost zero civilian casualties, which is an astounding difference from Trump, and even from Obama. (Also, Trump stripped away rules that prevented indiscriminate drone strikes on civilian areas or on things like weddings, which Biden almost immediately restored).

Just, like, on every possible foreign policy axis, Biden has been so much better for peace than Trump: ignoring the Rohinga Genocide, pulling out of the UN Human Rights Council, not just stopping tracking but censoring any reports of human rights abuses or sexual violence in other countries, pulling out of the Iran deal which could have brought them into the Western sphere (with benefits for Iranian citizens and all the victims of militant groups, including Russia, that it has been funding).

[workersolidarity]

🇸🇴 🚨 💥SOMALIA LAUNCHES LARGE-SCALE OPERATIONS TARGETING AL-SHABAAB HELD TERRITORIES, MORE THAN 70 MILITANTS KILLED💥

The Somali military launched large-scale ground operations targeting territory held by the Harakat al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen militant group, commonly known as al-Shabaab.

The Somali military says heavy fighting took place between Somali troops and al-Shabaab militants in the Aboodin area of the Lower Jubba region amid a strong military ground offensive into the rebel-held territories with close U.S. air support.

According to a statement released by the Somali military, more than 70 al-Shabaab fighters were killed and dozens more wounded in the fighting.

Allied forces consisting of the Somali military and Jubaland soldiers attacked concentrations of al-Shabaab's group leaders, leading to the deaths of a number of senior commanders.

"More than 70 militants and leaders were killed in the war,” the Somali military said in its statement, adding that the U.S. military provided air support to the ground operation in Al-Shabaab strongholds.

#source

@WorkerSolidarityNews

[nexusnotes]

Al Shabaab

Al Shabaab militants who kidnapped five local chiefs from Mandera county have demanded a ransom of Sh7 million.

The kidnapping, which occurred on February 3, a day before President Ruto arrived in Mandera, sent shockwaves through the community and prompted a race against time by local elders to raise the required funds while simultaneously urging the government to intervene.

The five chiefs—Mohammed Adawa, Mohammed Hassan, Mohammed Noor, assistant chief Ibrahim Gabow, senior chief Abdi Suraw— were on their way to Elwak for official duties when their vehicle was intercepted by the suspected militants near Iresuki village.

Eyewitnesses said the militants blindfolded the chiefs and took control of the vehicle, before driving towards Lafey, an area notorious for such attacks.

Security officials said the militants seemed to have prior knowledge of the chiefs’ movements, suggesting local complicity.

The officials were kidnapped just a day before President William Ruto’s scheduled visit to the area for a development tour, raising alarms about the ongoing security challenges in the region.

After the kidnapping, the local community tried to raise the ransom money without much success.

Elders from Mandera and Nairobi held separate meetings to initiate fundraising efforts, but it remainsunclear how much has been collected.

The urgency of the situation has intensified calls for government involvement, as many fear negotiations with terrorists could set a dangerous precedent.

An official familiar with the negotiations said approximately 60 Kenyans are currently held captive by al Shabaab, raising fears that dialogue could embolden the militants.

“This is likely to raise concerns about the whereabouts of the other people, including security agents, who are being held by the terrorists in Somalia,” the official stated.

Among those held captive is a soldier from Wajir, who is being held in Jilib since January 2016.

His family has started another fundraiser, seeking to raise more than Sh2 million ransom.

The increased visibility of these hostage situations complicates the government’s security strategy and highlights the precarious situationmany Kenyans are in.

The kidnapping has drawn attention to the broader issue of insecurity in the region, particularly near the porous Kenya-Somalia border, where al Shabaab militants frequent.

Just last December, a driver associated with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations was shot dead by suspected militants, further illustrating the persistent threats.

In response to the escalating security crisis, Ruto has vowed to take decisive action. During his recent visit to Mandera, he assured residents that the government is committed to eradicating insecurity in Northeastern.

“We will not allow criminals to terrorise our people and derail the region’s development agenda,” he said.

Ruto also directed Deputy Inspector-General of Police Gilbert Masengeli to lead security operations to rescue the abducted chiefs and restore order.

He said every part of Kenya is important and the government’s resolve to eliminate threats to national security remains strong.

Despite the government’s assurance, many in the region are concerned about the effectiveness of its strategies.

“Engaging in dialogue with terrorists can create a dangerous precedent, encouraging them to continue these attacks with the hope of receiving substantial ransoms,” an expert said.

As the community rallies to raise the ransom, there is also a growing push for sustainable solutions to the underlying issues contributing to insecurity.

The government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and economic opportunities is seen as vital for long-term stability.

Ruto highlighted plans to expand the road network in Northeastern Kenya, which could open up the area for investment and development.

The plight of the kidnapped chiefs serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many communities in northern Kenya.

[warsameblog]

S airstrikes against ISIS in the caves of Puntland/Somalia

The United States has conducted airstrikes against ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) targets in various regions, including Somalia, as part of its broader counterterrorism efforts. In Somalia, ISIS has a limited presence compared to al-Shabaab, which is the dominant militant group in the country. However, ISIS-affiliated fighters have established a foothold in the Puntland region,…

[wamuzimedia]

Missing Kenyan Soldier Held by Al-Shabaab for 9 Years Resurfaces in Emotional Video Plea

The family of a Kenyan Defence Forces soldier, reportedly held by Al-Shabaab militants for nearly a decade, is appealing to the government for help in securing his release. Sergeant Abdullahi Issa Ibrahim was taken captive during a deadly assault on the Kenyan-operated AMISOM base in El-Adde on January 15, 2016. Although presumed dead for nine years, the family’s hope has been reignited by a…

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 1.15 (after 1950)

1962 – The Derveni papyrus, Europe's oldest surviving manuscript dating to 340 BC, is found in northern Greece. 1962 – Netherlands New Guinea Conflict: Indonesian Navy fast patrol boat RI Macan Tutul commanded by Commodore Yos Sudarso sunk in Arafura Sea by the Dutch Navy. 1966 – The First Nigerian Republic, led by Abubakar Tafawa Balewa is overthrown in a military coup d'état. 1967 – The first Super Bowl is played in Los Angeles. The Green Bay Packers defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 35–10. 1969 – The Soviet Union launches Soyuz 5. 1970 – Nigerian Civil War: Biafran rebels surrender following an unsuccessful 32-month fight for independence from Nigeria. 1970 – Muammar Gaddafi is proclaimed premier of Libya. 1973 – Vietnam War: Citing progress in peace negotiations, President Richard Nixon announces the suspension of offensive action in North Vietnam. 1975 – The Alvor Agreement is signed, ending the Angolan War of Independence and giving Angola independence from Portugal. 1976 – Gerald Ford's would-be assassin, Sara Jane Moore, is sentenced to life in prison. 1977 – Linjeflyg Flight 618 crashes in Kälvesta near Stockholm Bromma Airport in Stockholm, Sweden, killing 22 people. 1981 – Pope John Paul II receives a delegation from the Polish trade union Solidarity at the Vatican led by Lech Wałęsa. 1991 – The United Nations deadline for the withdrawal of Iraqi forces from occupied Kuwait expires, preparing the way for the start of Operation Desert Storm. 1991 – Elizabeth II, in her capacity as Queen of Australia, signs letters patent allowing Australia to become the first Commonwealth realm to institute its own Victoria Cross in its honours system. 2001 – Wikipedia, a free wiki content encyclopedia, is launched (Wikipedia Day). 2005 – ESA's SMART-1 lunar orbiter discovers elements such as calcium, aluminum, silicon, iron, and other surface elements on the Moon. 2009 – US Airways Flight 1549 ditches safely in the Hudson River after the plane collides with birds less than two minutes after take-off. This becomes known as "The Miracle on the Hudson" as all 155 people on board were rescued. 2013 – A train carrying Egyptian Army recruits derails near Giza, Greater Cairo, killing 19 and injuring 120 others. 2015 – The Swiss National Bank abandons the cap on the Swiss franc's value relative to the euro, causing turmoil in international financial markets. 2016 – The Kenyan Army suffers its worst defeat ever in a battle with Al-Shabaab Islamic insurgents in El-Adde, Somalia. An estimated 150 Kenyan soldiers are killed in the battle. 2018 – British multinational construction and facilities management services company Carillion went into liquidation – officially, "the largest ever trading liquidation in the UK." 2019 – Somali militants attack the DusitD2 hotel in Nairobi, Kenya killing at least 21 people and injuring 19. 2019 – Theresa May's UK government suffers the biggest government defeat in modern times, when 432 MPs voting against the proposed European Union withdrawal agreement, giving her opponents a majority of 230. 2020 – The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare confirms the first case of COVID-19 in Japan. 2021 – A 6.2-magnitude earthquake strikes Indonesia's Sulawesi island killing at least 105 and injuring 3,369 people. 2022 – The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcano erupts, cutting off communications with Tonga and causing a tsunami across the Pacific. 2023 – Yeti Airlines Flight 691 crashes near Pokhara International Airport, killing all 72 people on board.

[caalaadd]

The Looming Inferno: How al-Shabaab, ISIS Threaten Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa

A formidable storm gathers on Ethiopia’s eastern frontier as Al-Shabaab and ISIS-affiliated militants infiltrate the Somali Region. Crossing through Harshin and Baligubadle after initially establishing footholds near Burco in Somaliland, these groups now seek to expand their reach. Armed with sophisticated weaponry, including anti-aircraft missiles and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), they…

[thestarlense]

DCI Officer Killed in Al-Shabaab Attack in Mandera

A tragic incident occurred in Lafey, Mandera County, where a police officer attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) lost his life in an attack believed to be orchestrated by suspected Al-Shabaab militants. The daring assault, which happened at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Monday, also saw the attackers escape with a police vehicle. Authorities report that the gunmen abandoned…

[saxafimedianetwork]

Somaliland Denounces Alleged Attack on Qorilugud by Mogadishu Regime and Al-Shabaab Militants

#Somaliland strongly condemns the violent assault by the Mogadishu admin, local militias & #AlShabaab-affiliated militants in #Buuhoodle, targeting civilians & threatening democratic #elections. We call on the int'l community to condemn this aggression.

Continue reading Somaliland Denounces Alleged Attack on Qorilugud by Mogadishu Regime and Al-Shabaab Militants

[leprivatebanker]

Somalia security cameras aim to cut al Shabaab attacks but militants fight back

[nsfwmiamiart]

Fun Fact about USA and UK and African Union corruption in Somalia.

Question:

Why are there African Union forces, as well as British and American bases, in Mogadishu, Somalia?

ChatGPT Answer:

The presence of African Union forces, a British base, and an American base in Mogadishu, Somalia, is part of a complex international effort to address various issues in the region. Here’s a breakdown of each:

African Union Forces

Mission: The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) was established in 2007 to support the Somali government in its efforts to combat the militant group al-Shabaab and restore stability to the country.

Objectives: AMISOM's main goals are to protect civilians, assist in peacekeeping, and support the Somali National Army in its fight against terrorism.

Members: The mission includes troops from several African countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Burundi.

British Base

Purpose: The UK has been involved in Somalia primarily through counter-terrorism and training efforts. The British base in Mogadishu is part of the UK's support for the Somali government and its efforts to counter extremist groups.

Roles: The British military’s roles may include training Somali forces, providing logistical support, and participating in counter-terrorism operations.

American Base

Purpose: The United States has been involved in Somalia for decades, focusing on counter-terrorism, humanitarian aid, and supporting the Somali government.

Roles: The American base in Mogadishu supports U.S. counter-terrorism operations, including those targeting al-Shabaab and other extremist groups. It also helps with training and equipping Somali forces.

Context and Coordination

Security Situation: Somalia has faced significant instability and violence, primarily due to the presence of extremist groups and ongoing internal conflicts. The international presence aims to stabilize the country and support peacebuilding efforts.

Coordination: While these forces and bases have different national interests and objectives, their activities are often coordinated to ensure a unified approach to stabilizing Somalia and addressing security threats.

This international involvement reflects a broader effort to address the complex challenges facing Somalia and support its path toward stability and development.

[warningsine]

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/explosion-goes-off-beach-somali-capital-prime-minister-says-2024-08-02/

MOGADISHU, Aug 3 (Reuters) - At least 32 civilians were killed and 63 injured in an explosion on a popular beach in the Somali capital Mogadishu late on Friday evening, police said, an attack blamed by Somali state media on the militant Islamist group al Shabaab.

It was the deadliest attack in the Horn of Africa country since twin car bombs detonated near a busy market intersection in October 2022, killing at least 100 people and wounding 300 others.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab, which has claimed similar attacks in the past, including the car bomb attack in 2022.

Police spokesperson Abdifatah Aden gave the death toll in Friday evening's explosion at a beach restaurant.

In addition to the civilians killed, Aden said that one of the attackers had blown himself up while three others had been killed by security forces. One attacker was captured alive while one soldier was killed during the assault.

State news agency SONNA had earlier said five al Shabaab attackers had been killed by security forces while a sixth had blown himself up during the assault.

Hassan Farah, a survivor, described the shock as the explosion shattered a peaceful evening.

"I was in the restaurant sipping coffee and having a good chat with friends when I saw a big man running, in a second there was something like lightening and a huge blast," he told Reuters.

"We were covered with smoke. Inside and outside the restaurant many people were lying on the floor while others were bleeding and crying."

Videos posted on X showed bodies lying on the beach in the dark, and people running to safety.

Al Shabaab controlled a vast area of Somalia before being pushed back in government counteroffensives since 2022. However, the militants remain capable of launching significant attacks on government, commercial, and military targets.

"The fact that the terrorist attack coincides with this night when the beach is the most congested shows the hostility of the terrorists to the Somali people," former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire said on his X account.

[somalilandcurrentnews]

Deadly Al-Shabaab attack at Mogadishu’s Liido Beach leaves 15 dead and more than 100+ injured

Victims lie on the sand at Liido Beach in Mogadishu, Somalia, following a brutal attack by al-Shabaab militants on Friday evening. The assault, which began with a suicide bomber detonating an explosive vest at the Beach View Hotel, resulted in 15 deaths and over 100 injuries. Security forces later neutralized five attackers and evacuated trapped civilians. (Photo by a local resident) Mogadishu— A…