Somali Government Condemns False Reports of Al-Shabaab Attack, Vows to Combat Disinformation
Mogadishu, Somalia – April 30, 2025 – The Somali government has issued a strong condemnation of the dissemination of false information regarding a purported Al-Shabaab mortar attack on the Halane compound and Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu. The Ministry of Information categorically dismissed these online reports, labeling them as fabricated and grossly exaggerated. While acknowledging the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab’s indiscriminate mortar attacks, the government emphasized that the recent claims misrepresented the scale and impact of such incidents, particularly regarding alleged casualties among foreign nationals.
The government’s statement highlighted the tragic consequences of Al-Shabaab’s indiscriminate attacks, which often target civilian areas and have resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians, including children attending Qur’anic schools. However, the government firmly asserted that there is no credible evidence to support the claims of foreign casualties in any recent attack. This clarification comes in response to online reports circulating earlier this week, alleging a significant attack on the high-security Halane compound, home to UN offices, AU personnel, and various foreign embassies.
The Somali government expressed serious concern over the deliberate spread of extremist propaganda and misinformation, which it believes aims to incite panic, undermine public trust, and serve the interests of terrorist groups. The Ministry of Information emphasized its commitment to monitoring individuals and networks, both within Somalia and abroad, suspected of engaging in such malicious activities.
Authorities pledged to take decisive action against those responsible for disseminating false information, emphasizing their commitment to upholding national security and public safety. The government’s warning underscores the seriousness with which it views the spread of disinformation and its potential to destabilize the country. The government is determined to utilize all lawful means necessary to hold perpetrators accountable and protect the nation’s sovereignty.
The government’s proactive stance against disinformation reflects a growing concern about the detrimental impact of false narratives, particularly in fragile security contexts. The deliberate spread of misinformation can not only incite fear and panic but also erode public trust in government institutions and create an environment conducive to further instability. The Somali government’s commitment to combating disinformation is crucial for maintaining public order and countering the narratives promoted by extremist groups like Al-Shabaab.
This latest incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Somali government in its fight against Al-Shabaab and the broader issue of misinformation in the digital age. The government’s firm response underscores its determination to uphold national security, protect its citizens, and counter the narratives propagated by extremist groups. The commitment to holding those responsible for spreading false information accountable is a crucial step in maintaining public trust and ensuring stability in Somalia. The international community’s support in combating disinformation and strengthening Somalia’s capacity to address this challenge is essential. Furthermore, collaborative efforts with social media platforms to identify and remove harmful content are crucial in mitigating the spread of misinformation and its potential consequences.