On Saturday morning, multiple rounds of mortar fire struck residential neighborhoods in Mogadishu’s Waaberi and Hamar-jajab districts, causing significant casualties, according to preliminary reports. The attacks, which targeted civilian areas, have raised concerns about escalating violence as Somalia prepares for upcoming local elections.
While exact numbers remain unconfirmed, local sources indicate that the shelling resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, with some victims reportedly being women and children. Several homes and businesses were also damaged in the bombardment.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. However, such indiscriminate shelling has been a frequent tactic by Al-Shabaab militants, who have previously launched mortar attacks to disrupt government operations and intimidate civilians.
The assault comes as Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) prepares to begin voter registration for local council elections in three additional districts of Mogadishu. The electoral process, a key step in Somalia’s gradual move toward democratic governance, has faced repeated delays and security challenges.
The NIEC recently announced plans to expand voter registration beyond the initial pilot districts, signaling progress despite ongoing threats.
Militant groups, particularly Al-Shabaab, have historically intensified attacks during election periods to undermine government legitimacy.
Somali authorities have yet to release an official statement, but security forces are likely to heighten operations in response.
Medical teams and emergency responders are working to assist the wounded, though access to some areas may be hindered by ongoing instability.
This attack underscores the fragile security situation in Mogadishu, even as the government pushes forward with electoral preparations. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.