MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – Security at the Somali Presidential Palace, Villa Somalia, has been significantly intensified amid growing fears about potential terrorist attacks targeting the site.
The palace, located in the heart of Mogadishu, is home to the president, the prime minister and the speaker of the parliament. It also hosts few government ministers.
Recent intelligence reports have heightened fears of possible suicide bombings or shooting attacks orchestrated by terrorist groups. Some of these groups are reportedly disguising themselves as palace security personnel.
In response, security forces have imposed a complete lockdown on access to and from the palace since last night.
All traffic and pedestrian movement on roads leading to and from the Presidential Palace have been halted.
Reports from the Halane base, which houses Western and United Nations agencies, suggest that terrorist attacks could target checkpoints guarding the Presidential Palace and other nearby areas.
In the past, Al Shabaab militants have carried out both suicide bombings and direct shooting attacks on the palace.
In April, militants attacked the SYL Hotel, located near the palace killing a dozen of people and injuring many including government officials who frequented the hotel.
On Friday last week, Al Shabaab launched a terrorist attack on Liido Beach, resulting in the deaths of approximately 50 people and injuries to many others.
The latest warnings also indicate that Al Shabaab may target hotels and other locations in Mogadishu.
United Nations staff have been advised to avoid areas at high risk for such attacks.