Sunday October 5, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has strongly condemned Saturday’s al-Shabaab attack on the Godka Jilacow prison, located near the presidential compound in Mogadishu.
In a statement issued on Sunday, IGAD commended Somalia’s security forces for their swift response, which it said helped avert a greater tragedy.
Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, the IGAD Executive Secretary, expressed solidarity with Somalia, saying, “This attack will not shake Somalia’s courage or our region’s resolve. IGAD stands firmly with the people and Government of Somalia in the fight against terror and in pursuit of lasting peace and stability.”
IGAD reiterated its call for sustained regional and international cooperation to eliminate terrorism and foster long-term peace and resilience across the Horn of Africa.
Somali government forces successfully ended a six-hour siege by militants on Sunday, killing all seven attackers, according to an official government statement. Authorities confirmed that no civilians or security officers were killed during the assault, which was claimed by the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab group — known for carrying out numerous attacks across Somalia.
The attack occurred just hours after the federal government lifted several long-standing roadblocks in Mogadishu. The barriers had been maintained for years to protect key government installations, but many residents argued they obstructed traffic and disrupted commerce.