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WAR OF IDEAS
Has the U.S. Reached Peak Car?
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KILLER APPS
Cyberspies Are Using PRISM for Spearphishing
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PASSPORT
Remembering Michael Hastings
Posted By Uri Friedman
Thursday, December 8, 2011 - 6:47 PM
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Want a play-by-play of the battles al-Shabab militants are waging today with Kenyan forces in southern Somalia and Somali troops in Mogadishu? Look no further than al-Shabab's Twitter feed, which launched yesterday with a quote from the Koran ("in the name of God, the most gracious, the most
merciful")
and has since tweeted in vivid and impassioned English. The Kenya Defense Forces "envisaged a lightening invasion of #Somalia
but the Blitzkrieg they'd hope for became a thorny quagmire for the
inexperienced soldiers," @HSMPress (short for
Harakat al-Shabab al-Mujahideen) declared this morning, adding, "Military ineptitude, deteriorating economy,
social imbalance, & public ambivalence trigger a desultory face-saving
attempt by the #KDF:
FLEE!" A battle cry followed minutes later: "Despite the tragedy and loss of life &
wealth, a Mujahid does not desert the dignity to defend what he holds dearest:
His Faith!"
The new presence on Twitter, as Wired notes, may be part of a larger rebranding effort for the al-Qaeda-affiliated Islamic militant group. Earlier this week, Somalia Report noted that al-Shabab had decided to change its name to Imaarah Islamiyah ("Islamic Authority"). "Al-Shabab means 'youth' but many of us, including the leaders, are very old," a spokesman for the militant group explained. Wizened but still very much with it, mind you. After all, they're on Twitter.
In truth, though, al-Shabab's Twitter account represents more of a propaganda campaign than a branding campaign. On Wednesday, Wired pointed out that "journalists, terrorism researchers and aid workers make up the lion's share of its early followers, not eager Muslim youth" (hence the value of English-language tweeting). @HSMPress serves as a counterweight to the much-publicized Twitter feed maintained by Kenyan military spokesman Maj. Emmanuel Chirchir, who has used the microblogging service to warn Somali civilians about air raids and get in the occasional jab. "Even with Al Shabaab change of name, KDF/TFG is committed in delivering the promise," Chirchir tweeted this week, in reference to the Kenyan and Somali militaries. "Reduce Al Shabaab effectiveness."
The proxy microblog battle speaks to a larger trend: Twitter, for all its pluses, is becoming a bit of a propaganda cesspool as the power of new media becomes more difficult to ignore. NATO has been tweet-sparring with two Taliban feeds for months now (a sample salvo from NATO today: "Scores of coalition killed in Kunar mortar attacks, huh? @Alemarahweb How about none killed"). The North Korean government launched a Twitter feed -- @uriminzok ("our nation") -- last year, prompting the South Korean government to threaten any of its citizens who reply or retweet @uriminzok's messages with legal action. This week, the House Homeland Security subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence held a hearing on the threat posed by terrorists using social media tools such as Twitter to attract followers.
Propaganda, as the popular feeds mentioned above attest, does indeed attract followers, though one imagines not all of them are ideological sympathizers. After two days and 21 tweets, @HSMPress already has 759 followers and counting.
They are not Muslims. they are using names for MuslimsPolice stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
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Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
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Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt GingrichRon Paul, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney: Who Funds Them?
A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Share This Story
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inShare
Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt GingrichRon Paul, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney: Who Funds Them?
A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Share This Story
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inShare
Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt GingrichRon Paul, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney: Who Funds Them?
A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt GingrichRon Paul, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney: Who Funds Them?
A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Share This Story
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Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt GingrichRon Paul, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney: Who Funds Them?
A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
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Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
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Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Share This Story
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inShare
Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
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Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
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Print This Article
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By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Share This Story
1
inShare
Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
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A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
Al-Shabab Militant Detonates Mogadishu Car Bomb After Arrest
Comments 0
Print This Article
Send This Aricle
Share This Aricle
Text Size + -
By Daniel Tovrov: Subscribe to Daniel's RSS feed
December 6, 2011 10:58 AM EST
A car bomb in Mogadishu, Somalia killed at least five people on Tuesday -- the suicide bombing is thought to be the work of al-Shabab, a paramilitary rebel group that wields a deadly control over parts of the country.
(Photo: Reuters)Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Enlarge
(Photo: Reuters)
Somali police evacuate an injured colleague from the scene of a suicide car bomb near the KM4 building in Hodan district, south of the capital Mogadishu
Share This Story
1
inShare
Related Articles
Al-Shabab Raids Aid Agencies; Could Prolong Somalia's Deadly Famine
Kenya-Somalia Fued Intensifies with Al-Shabab Ambush
Kenyan Security Rests on Al-Shabab's Defeat in Somalia
Police stopped the car as it approached a busy junction in the capital. From there, the story took an unusual and devastating turn. After being stopped, the bomber was arrested by police officers who took him into custody, according to The Press Association. But then, hours later, police took the suspect back to his vehicle and ordered him to dismantle the explosive device. In a move that seems all too obvious in hindsight, the militant detonated the bomb instead.
Three of those killed were civilians and at least one policeman died.
Al-Shabab, a militant Islamist group that is the ruling clan in many parts of politically unstable Somalia, was expelled from Mogadishu earlier this year by African Union (AU) troops, but the group has been fighting to regain its old territory. Living up to an October promise, al-Shabab has initiated a number of attacks on civilians and government institutions in Mogadishu and elsewhere.
Must Read
Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt GingrichRon Paul, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney: Who Funds Them?
A sculpture showing the Euro currency sign is seen in front of the ECB headquarters in FrankfurtEurope Reinvents Itself: A Primer on the New Eurozone
Like us on Facebook
Along with the AU, Kenya is also taking an offensive against al-Shabab, attacking from the west. Kenya launched an unprecedented military offensive into Somalia this fall after two Western tourists were kidnapped by the rebel group.
Kenya's campaign has been controversial. Far from backing down, al-Shabab has gone on a counter-offensive against Kenyan troops and are thought to be responsible for two grenade attacks as deep into Kenya as Nairobi, the capital.
The Kenyan military has been quick to report its victories against al-Shabab. On Tuesday, Kenya reported that dozens of militants have been killed in recent skirmishes, including five who tried to attack a navy ship by boat on Monday. According to The Associated Press, the Kenyan military said that 40 militants and 11 Somali government soldiers died in a battle over the weekend, but the report cannot be verified.
Al-Shabab's stated mission is to turn Somalia into an Islamic state governed by sharia law. The group, which finds room to operate within the ineffectiveness of Somalia's existing government, has been linked to al-Qaida and has been known to attack any foreign presence in the country.
In late November, the group raided a number of humanitarian agencies giving aid to those suffering from a long-lasting famine, including the United Nations Refugee Agency, U.N. Children's Fund and World Health Organization.
"I am extremely concerned by Al-Shabab's seizure of property and equipment belonging to several non-governmental organizations and U.N. agencies working to alleviate suffering in southern Somalia, " Valerie Amos, U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, said in a statement last week.
"I call on groups associated with Al-Shabab to withdraw immediately from humanitarian compounds seized this morning in the regions of Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle and Hiraan, and to desist from any further actions which would threaten humanitarian operations and the safety of humanitarian workers," she added.
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