The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on Somalia, Amb. Mohamat Annadif, has condemned today’s terrorist attack in the Somali capital Mogadishu, and praised the quick action of the Somali forces which prevented loss of civilian life.
At least one member of the Somali National Army died and two others were injured when they stopped a suicide bomber from accessing a compound next to the Ethiopian Embassy which is located near Villa Somalia. The bomber exploded himself as he was chased away from the area.
“The heroic actions of the dead soldier and his compatriots have saved many Somali lives,” said Amb Annadif, adding that the attack comes at a time when the city has been enjoying its longest period of relative peace in 20 years.
“AMISOM is committed to continuing to support the Somali National Security Forces and to build up their capacity to defend the people of Somalia,” he said. He offered his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the dead soldier and his prayers for the quick recovery of the injured.
He noted that security in the capital has markedly improved after AMISOM Police units begun night patrols alongside their Somali counterparts last month.
The AU mission has been training the core of a rejuvenated Somali National Army and Somali Police Force within Mogadishu. Last week, 60 Somali Police officers including 16 female officers graduated from training in Basic Criminal Investigation skills. Two weeks ago, a further 200 departed for Djibouti to attend a three month training course in Public Order Management conducted by AMISOM.
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