Mogadishu, Somalia – A convoy carrying Turkish engineers narrowly escaped an ambush by Al-Shabaab militants on the outskirts of Mogadishu, in an attack that once again underscores the group’s persistent threat to Somalia’s recovery and foreign-led reconstruction efforts.
The assault took place on Friday evening along the Mogadishu–Afgoye road, a strategic highway connecting the capital to Somalia’s southern regions. Witnesses said the militants opened fire and detonated explosives as the engineers’ convoy passed through a vulnerable stretch frequently targeted by insurgents. Somali security personnel escorting the group quickly responded, forcing the attackers to retreat after a brief exchange of gunfire.
No Turkish nationals were hurt, but several Somali guards sustained minor injuries. Security forces launched a pursuit operation in nearby villages, though the gunmen managed to escape.
The engineers were working with a Turkish construction company engaged in vital road rehabilitation projects meant to improve trade and transport across the country. Al-Shabaab has repeatedly targeted such projects, viewing them as symbols of the Somali government’s partnerships with foreign allies—particularly Türkiye, one of the country’s most active development and security partners.
Despite the danger, Turkish engagement in Somalia has remained steadfast, from training security forces to rebuilding key infrastructure. Friday’s ambush serves as a grim reminder of the risks faced by those committed to Somalia’s reconstruction, and of the enduring instability that continues to challenge progress just outside the capital.