Somalia: Prisons Chief Warns of Al-Shabaab Plot to Attack Mogadishu Central Prison

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia’s top prison official said that security forces have received credible intelligence suggesting the militant group Al-Shabaab is planning a coordinated attack on the Central Prison in Mogadishu.

General Mahad Abdirahman Aden, Commander of the Somali Custodial Corps, told reporters that forces are on high alert and fully prepared to repel any attempted assault on the facility, which holds a significant number of Al-Shabaab inmates and is located in a high-security zone in the capital.

“We are constantly receiving intelligence indicating the group’s intentions to infiltrate the prison and break out their detained members,” Aden said. “We are vigilant and will not allow such an attack to succeed. If they attempt it, they will face overwhelming force.”

His warning comes nearly a year after a major security breach on July 13, 2024, when several armed Al-Shabaab inmates—many of them serving death sentences and life terms—attempted an escape from the same prison. The incident led to a fierce gun battle between the inmates and Somali Custodial Corps guards. The attempted breakout was foiled, but it raised alarms over internal and external threats to prison security.

General Aden also warned civilians loitering near the prison to avoid the area, noting that security forces are monitoring all abnormal activities closely. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements,” he said.

In a separate warning to his troops, the commander advised against excessive use of mobile phones during shifts, cautioning that distractions could compromise security and potentially give the enemy an opening.

“Officers must remain united and professional. This is not a time for chasing ranks or recognition—it’s a time to protect your country and your fellow citizens,” he said.

Aden concluded by encouraging all personnel to report any unusual activity or operational lapses immediately to help strengthen the defense of the country’s most critical detention facility.

GAROWE ONLINE