By: Ollus Ndomu
Terror attacks engineered by al-shabaab have continued in Somalia and latest in the news is an attack which has killed 10 and 20 recruits at a military training school in the capital Mogadishu on Tuesday.
The Tuesday attack happened outside the General Dhega Badan military training school, south of the capital.
In a statement, Army Chief, General Odowa Rage said a suicide bomber who disguised himself as one of the trainees detonated his explosives at a security screening assembly for recruits.
al-shabab has claimed responsibility in a statement saying one of its fighters carried out the operation inside the heavily fortified Turkish-built military base adding that the operation killed 40 and would 50 recruits.
Commenting on the incident, security expert Ahmed, Hassan said al-shabaab is responding to the increased military pressure ahead of Somalia’s elections coming in two months time:
“The attack is in response to ongoing military operations and to disrupt the stability of the major cities designated to host upcoming elections. Another intention could be to discourage young citizens from joining the national Army. As you might be aware, we have recently observed an increase in high school graduates — young men and women voluntarily subscribing to the Army. “
According to local media, the latest Tuesday attack follows days after Somali army killed 50 al-shabaab fighters in an operation in the Middle Shabelle and Hiran regions.
Voice of America reports of a heavy security presence across Mogadishu and the rest of the country ahead of the presidential and parliamentary elections slated to take place in 60 days time.
