Minister of Information: “Somali Forces Halt Terrorist Attack on Security Complex in Mogadishu.”

Mogadishu, 31 August 2014 – H.E. Mustafa Duhulow, the Minister of Information today praised security forces’ bravery in halting an attack on the Godka Jilicow detention centre in Mogadishu. “Around 11:40 am today terrorists attempted to force their way into a government detention centre in Mogadishu. 7 al-Shabaab members (5 wearing stolen security forces uniforms) approached the centre in two vehicles and immediately started their attack. All 7 al-Shabaab were killed within 45 minutes of the attack beginning.

“The terrorists aimed to force their way in the centre and free their comrades who were being held in the centre. Regrettably, three members of the security forces as well as two innocent passersby were also killed in the incident. The Federal Government of Somalia sends sincere condolences to their families.” The Minister said.

The Minister of Information concluded his remarks, saying “The Federal Government of Somalia praises the bravery of security forces at the detention centre that foiled the attack from Al-Shabaab and killed all 7 attackers. These terrorists groups are against the security improvements we are currently experiencing here in Mogadishu and all they want is for the world to believe that Mogadishu is not safe. However, loudly we say to them that these foiled attacks strengthen our forces and prove their bravery to the people of Somalia. People can now see who is against the peace and stability in Somalia. These attacks will not stop us improving security in the country nor will it divert us from our aim of bringing peace and stability to the country.“