It was in November 2015 when militants attacked the Sahafi Hotel in Somalia, the first time Al-Shabaab fighters disguised themselves as African Union soldiers. At least 20 people died in that attack, including a member of parliament.
Now, three months after Somali authorities warn of such a plot by Al-Shabaab. The African Union now has weighed in – and has now said that
the militants are planning more attacks in the country and plan to use AMISOM uniforms it seized in separate attacks on three AMISOM bases in southern Somalia.
“These people don’t stop their maneuvers – they continue to manipulate information.They are offering information that is not correct to portray an image of a force that they are not – we’ve ben hearing rumours that Al-Shabaab is now trying to utilize uniforms stolen from troops and commit atrocities against the Somali public”. AMB. Francisco Madeira, head, African Union Mission in Somalia
But Somali authorities are convinced that they are winning this battle. It recently warned that the militants were desperate and targeting soft targets – its also says the only way to winning the war against the Al-Shabaab – is through public support.
“The government of Somalia through its relevant security agencies and partners are aware and alert of imminent attacks from the militant group Al-Shabaab.
All that is missing for now is public support – one that is crucial in fighting terrorism”. Abdisalam Aato, government Spokesman
Al-Shabaab is believed to have made away with a large cache of weapons, military gear and uniform after it overran three AU bases controlled by Burundi – Uganda and Kenyan forces. Authorities here say that they are alert and aware of Al-Shabaab’s sinister plots, its not clear when and where the militants will strike
but for now Somali authorities and the African Union say that with public support they can at least foil any plans by the militants.
