Mogadishu (UM) – The many explosions of yesterday was shaken the Somali people more than any according to interviewees who spoke with UM. Many said they were now truly scared that Al-Shabaab can return to Mogadishu militarily.
“No government had over 4 explosions in one day since the beginning of Al-Shabaab’s fight with any government. This is a new low for Somali security and a confidence booster for terrorism,” said an experienced security analyst who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “A government Ministry is exploded, Deputy Minister killed and many explosions across the city is bad news for the people.”
“I have never been so scared and I was born in Mogadishu. Yesterday was just terrible and I think after two years of President Farmaajo’s government Al-Shabaab is still here and strong,” said Ahmed Roble. “I am sad because I also lost a good friend in the attack. There’s too much anger with government and their security forces. They have failed in security again.”
Many interviewed said that it was the new tactic of terror of multiple explosions that made them most worried. Although this is not yet confirmed, interviewees told UM there were at least over 4 explosions yesterday.
“I heard 4 explosions but there were I think 5 all together in different places in Mogadishu,” said Farhan Aynan, a transport worker. “We had to use the back roads to take passengers and this was scary too because most of the main roads we need were closed.”
The violent attacks of yesterday claimed the lives of at least 15 people according to official sources and injured many more. The attack also claimed private property which the owners must now rebuild.
“The destruction is clear we can all see with our eyes but the psychological damage is huge. There are soldiers everywhere, roads are still closed regularly, they say they are making security better but we still have explosions in Mogadishu,” said Ruun Ahmed a business woman in Hamarweyne district. Something is not right.”
Many interviewed welcomed the Security personnel reshuffle by the Prime Minister but said it will make no difference. They were also dismissive of his meeting with the secuirty forces leaders, AMISOM and other Western Ambassadors after the attack.
“All the people the Prime Minister is meeting failed us already and have conflicting goals,”said a security analyst who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
“The whole security policy and its implementation is wrong so our trust is not with government but with Allah SWT who can protect us,” said Gamal Muse a teacher. “Assassinations, explosions and soldiers strike happened all in one week. Who can we trust?”