Somali PM chairs high-level security meeting to increase security during Ramadan

 Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre chaired a high-level security meeting on Sunday, focusing on enhancing security measures in Mogadishu and surrounding areas to counter potential threats during the holy month of Ramadan.

During the session, security agencies provided updates on efforts to maintain stability in the capital and neighboring regions. Officials discussed strategies to enhance coordination between law enforcement and the public, aiming to ensure the safety of residents amid heightened security risks.

Prime Minister Barre praised security forces for their ongoing efforts to safeguard the city and instructed them, alongside the Banadir regional administration, to intensify operations. He emphasized that militant groups were in decline but urged continued vigilance to prevent disruptions to peace and stability.

Al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group, has escalated attacks on government forces in the Middle Shabelle region since the start of Ramadan. The group launched assaults on Bal’ad, a strategic town near Mogadishu, as well as Biya Adde, both located in Middle Shabelle.

In response, Somali government forces, with support from international partners, conducted airstrikes in the Biyo Cadde area of Middle Shabelle, killing at least 44 Al-Shabaab fighters, including senior commanders, the Ministry of Information confirmed Sunday. The overnight strikes targeted militants retreating after suffering heavy losses in ground operations led by government-aligned local militia forces. Security officials also reported the destruction of three armed vehicles used by the insurgents.

The Somali government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens, particularly during Ramadan, as security forces continue efforts to neutralize extremist threats.