One Indian sailor among five was killed by Somali pirates aboard a hijacked oil tanker MT Hoarner 25, off the coast of Somalia. Among the five were also three Pakistanis and one Myanmar national, said the Puntland maritime officials. Additionally, three Pakistanis and one Indian were injured. Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) said that it successfully retook control of the vessel.&nbsp;The tanker, which was carrying about 18,500 barrels, was moving towards Mogadishu. It had been held by pirates since April 21. According to the BBC, &nbsp;the hijacked tanker was anchored near the Somali coast between the fishing towns of Xaafun and Bander Beyla. Officials said that there were a total of 17 citizens on board. &nbsp;They included 10 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, one Sri Lankan and a Myanmar national. The PMPF launched the rescue operation on September 29, 2026, capturing 16 suspected pirates.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-jordan-deny-netanyahu-abu-dhabi-meeting-1790772014170">Saudi Arabia, Jordan deny reports of meeting with Netanyahu in Abu Dhabi</a>India has expressed grief over the tragic death of its citizen during the counter-piracy operations. The Indian High Commission in Kenya expressed deep grief over the tragedy. The embassy confirmed it is in close contact with Somali authorities and the victim's family in Kolkata to expedite the repatriation of his mortal remains.“All other Indian seafarers on board are reportedly safe, including those on MT Sibu 1 and MT Eureka, which have also been recently rescued. The High Commission remains in close touch with the concerned authorities in Somalia regarding their safety, well-being and repatriation.”&nbsp;

One Indian sailor was among five killed as Puntland forces retook the hijacked tanker MT Hoarner 25 off Somalia after a rescue operation.

One Indian sailor among five was killed by Somali pirates aboard a hijacked oil tanker MT Hoarner 25, off the coast of Somalia. Among the five were also three Pakistanis and one Myanmar national, said the Puntland maritime officials. Additionally, three Pakistanis and one Indian were injured. Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) said that it successfully retook control of the vessel. The tanker, which was carrying about 18,500 barrels, was moving towards Mogadishu. It had been held by pirates since April 21. According to the BBC, the hijacked tanker was anchored near the Somali coast between the fishing towns of Xaafun and Bander Beyla. Officials said that there were a total of 17 citizens on board. They included 10 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, one Sri Lankan and a Myanmar national. The PMPF launched the rescue operation on September 29, 2026, capturing 16 suspected pirates. Also Read: Saudi Arabia, Jordan deny reports of meeting with Netanyahu in Abu Dhabi India has expressed grief over the tragic death of its citizen during the counter-piracy operations. The Indian High Commission in Kenya expressed deep grief over the tragedy. The embassy confirmed it is in close contact with Somali authorities and the victim's family in Kolkata to expedite the repatriation of his mortal remains. “All other Indian seafarers on board are reportedly safe, including those on MT Sibu 1 and MT Eureka, which have also been recently rescued. The High Commission remains in close touch with the concerned authorities in Somalia regarding their safety, well-being and repatriation.”

One Indian sailor was among five killed as Puntland forces retook the hijacked tanker MT Hoarner 25 off Somalia after a rescue operation.

One Indian sailor among 5 killed aboard oil tanker off Somalia coast

Several United States surveillance drones have been spotted conducting reconnaissance missions in areas around the strategic port city of Bosaso, Somalia.


 Report: Several surveillance drones seen in Somalia's port city 

Pirates Hijack Vessels Off Yemen and Somalia: Maritime security forces are responding to a disturbing resurgence of piracy in the Horn of Africa after armed groups seized two commercial vessels in separate attacks. According to reports, a total of 22 Indian nationals are among the captive crew members. The first incident involved the Eritrea-flagged oil products tanker M.T. Sibu 1 (also known as the Seamull), which was boarded by six armed pirates in the Gulf of Aden roughly 30 nautical miles off the Yemeni coast.

India's Kenya mission: all seafarers are safe

Pirates Hijack Vessels Off Yemen and Somalia: Maritime security forces are responding to a disturbing resurgence of piracy in the Horn of Africa after armed groups seized two commercial vessels in separate attacks. According to reports, a total of 22 Indian nationals are among the captive crew members. The first incident involved the Eritrea-flagged oil products tanker M.T. Sibu 1 (also known as the Seamull), which was boarded by six armed pirates in the Gulf of Aden roughly 30 nautical miles off the Yemeni coast.


Breaking | Reports: Pirates hijack 2 ships with 22 Indians off Yemen & Somalia

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has thanked African Union forces for years of support while calling for their eventual departure from the country. Arguing that Somalia is now better equipped to handle its own security challenges, the president said the nation can increasingly take responsibility for protecting its people and territory. The announcement marks a significant moment in Somalia’s long journey toward stability, sovereignty and self-reliance.


Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud calls for African Union's exit 

Somalia move towards greater national control of its security

At least five Kenyan police officers have been killed in a deadly attack allegedly carried out by the Somali militant group Al-Shabaab. The assault highlights the continuing security challenges along the Kenya-Somalia border, where militants have repeatedly targeted security personnel and civilians.
Authorities have launched investigations and intensified security operations in the affected area as concerns grow over cross-border militant activity. The latest attack underscores the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region.

Somali Militant Group Attacks Kenyan Officers, 5 Killed | Wion News 

Clashes erupted for a second consecutive day in Mogadishu as Somalia’s opposition supporters confronted security forces amid rising political tensions. Protesters gathered in parts of the capital while security personnel attempted to control the unrest. The violence has heightened concerns over stability and security in Somalia as political divisions continue to deepen.


Somalia's Opposition Supporters & Security Forces Clashed in Mogadishu for a Second Day

Government forces and opposition fighters have exchanged heavy gunfire in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, as a row over delays to elections has escalated.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term in office ended on 15 May but was extended by a year. The opposition said this was unconstitutional and called for protests on Thursday.

Somalia Violence: Heavy Gunfire in Somali Capital as Election Delay Row Escalates

Fresh anti-government protests have erupted in Somalia over alleged forced evictions, with demonstrations turning violent in several areas. Protesters accused authorities of removing vulnerable families from their homes, while former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire condemned what he described as a “brutal attack” on civilians protesting peacefully. The unrest has intensified political tensions and renewed debate over housing rights, governance and security challenges facing Somalia.


Somalia Protests: Violent Anti-Government Protests Erupt In Somalia Over Forced Evictions Crisis

Heavy rains have triggered severe flooding in Mogadishu, submerging low-lying areas and key roads across the city. The relentless downpour has disrupted daily life, with waterlogging affecting transport and residential zones. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as emergency teams work to manage the impact. The floods highlight growing concerns over extreme weather patterns and urban drainage challenges in the region.


Mogadishu Floods: Heavy Rains Flood Roads, Houses With Muddy Water in Somalia

#Gravitas Violence has gripped various parts of Africa. Mali is reeling from deadly internal attacks, while terrorist attacks continue to persist across Nigeria. In eastern Africa, piracy has once again seen a resurgence off the coast of Somalia. 


Africa Hit by Fresh Violence in Mali, Nigeria, Somalia

Somalia is moving toward a historic shift — transitioning from an indirect electoral system to direct elections.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has framed the move as a step toward democracy and transparency. But the plan is facing strong resistance from regional states, raising fears of political instability.

For decades, Somalia’s political system has relied on clan-based indirect voting. Now, this ambitious reform could redefine governance — or deepen divisions within the country.

Somalia Pushes Direct Elections: Government Faces Regional Revolts Over 2026 Vote

Somalia has severed all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, annulling deals spanning key port operations, security cooperation and defence, citing “harmful actions” that undermine the country’s unity and sovereignty.


Somaliland row: Somalia cites UAE actions 'undermining its territorial integrity'

Israel became the first country to formally recognise the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state on Friday -- a decision that could reshape regional dynamics and test Somalia's longstanding opposition to secession.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would seek immediate cooperation with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology and the economy. In a statement, he congratulated Somaliland's president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, praised his leadership and invited him to visit Israel.

Somaliland Row: Muslim Nations Condemn Israel

A convoy carrying Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was targeted in a deadly attack by the al-Shabaab militant group in Mogadishu this Tuesday.

Somali militants target presidential convoy in bomb attack

Somali security forces have ended a 24-hour siege by al-Shabab fighters who stormed a popular hotel in the central city of Beledweyne. 7 people have reportedly died in the attack.

Somalia Hotel Attack: Al-Shabab siege ends, seven dead

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Mogadishu as their nations attempt to mend relations strained by Ethiopia's deal for sea access with Somaliland, a breakaway republic Somalia considers part of its territory.

Ethiopia & Somalia in efforts to mend fragile ties

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) shared a video of the first American airstrike on Islamic State targets in an African nation during his second term.&nbsp;
A day after announcing that he had ordered &lsquo;precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia&rsquo;, Trump shared the unverified footage on his Truth Social platform.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-find-and-kill-you-trumps-stern-warning-as-us-conducts-air-strikes-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8682499">'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump's stern warning</h2>
This comes after the United States military on Saturday (Feb 1) conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia.
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113931812065727107/embed" class="truthsocial-embed truthsocial-video" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Trump on Truth Social had posted, &ldquo;This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia. These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians. Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn&rsquo;t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that &ldquo;WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!&rdquo;
Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-become-first-country-to-ban-ai-tools-creating-child-sexual-abuse-images-what-all-does-it-include-8683920">UK to become first country to ban AI tools creating child sexual abuse images. What all does it include?</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Strikes carried out in northern region of Somalia</h2>
The strikes were carried out in a northern region of Somalia, where the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) have been carrying out operations against ISIL since December. The armed group is said to have established a presence in the Golis Mountains.
&ldquo;Recent air strikes have led to the neutralisation of key figures within ISIS, marking a significant advancement as we progress into the second phase of our operation,&rdquo; the regional government said on Sunday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Explore President Trump's announcement of the first US airstrike on ISIS targets in Africa during his second term, marking a significant military engagement.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Feb 2) shared a video of the first American airstrike on Islamic State targets in an African nation during his second term. A day after announcing that he had ordered ‘precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia’, Trump shared the unverified footage on his Truth Social platform. Also read | 'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia Trump's stern warning This comes after the United States military on Saturday (Feb 1) conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia. Trump on Truth Social had posted, “This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia. These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians. Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn’t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that “WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!” Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike. Also read | UK to become first country to ban AI tools creating child sexual abuse images. What all does it include? Strikes carried out in northern region of Somalia The strikes were carried out in a northern region of Somalia, where the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) have been carrying out operations against ISIL since December. The armed group is said to have established a presence in the Golis Mountains. “Recent air strikes have led to the neutralisation of key figures within ISIS, marking a significant advancement as we progress into the second phase of our operation,” the regional government said on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia

The U.S. military has conducted an airstrike against Islamic State operatives in Somalia. This marks the first attack by the U.S. during President Donald Trump's second term.

Trump launches airstrikes on ISIS in Somalia

The United States military on Saturday conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday (Feb 01).
"This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia," Trump said on Truth Social.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a>
"These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians," he added.
"Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn&rsquo;t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that &ldquo;WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!,&rdquo; the US President warned.
Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596">'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings</a>
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday that the strikes by US Africa Command were directed by President Trump and coordinated with Somalia's government.
"Our initial assessment is that multiple operatives were killed in the airstrikes and no civilians were harmed," Hegseth added.
"This action further degrades ISIS's ability to plot and conduct terrorist attacks threatening U.S. citizens, our partners, and innocent civilians and sends a clear signal that the United States always stands ready to find and eliminate terrorists who threaten the United States and our allies, even as we conduct robust border-protection and many other operations under President Trump's leadership," the statement from the defense secretary said.
The Pentagon's counterterrorism strategy in Africa has been strained as two key partners, Chad and Niger, ousted U.S. forces last year and took over key bases that the U.S. military had used to train and conduct missions against terrorist groups across the Sahel, the vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert.
As per the International Crisis Group, the number of ISIS militants in Somalia is likely to be in the hundreds, with most of them scattered in the Cal Miskaat mountains in Puntland's Bari region.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia," Trump said on Truth Social.

The United States military on Saturday conducted air strikes on Islamic State group targets in Somalia, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday (Feb 01). "This morning I ordered precision Military air strikes on the Senior ISIS Attack Planner and other terrorists he recruited and led in Somalia," Trump said on Truth Social. Also read: Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict "These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our Allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they live in, and killed many terrorists without, in any way, harming civilians," he added. "Our Military has targeted this ISIS Attack Planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn’t act quickly enough to get the job done. I did! The message to ISIS and all others who would attack Americans is that “WE WILL FIND YOU, AND WE WILL KILL YOU!,” the US President warned. Trump, however, did not share the identity of the ISIS planner, nor did he confirm whether that person was killed in the strike. Also read: 'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Saturday that the strikes by US Africa Command were directed by President Trump and coordinated with Somalia's government. "Our initial assessment is that multiple operatives were killed in the airstrikes and no civilians were harmed," Hegseth added. "This action further degrades ISIS's ability to plot and conduct terrorist attacks threatening U.S. citizens, our partners, and innocent civilians and sends a clear signal that the United States always stands ready to find and eliminate terrorists who threaten the United States and our allies, even as we conduct robust border-protection and many other operations under President Trump's leadership," the statement from the defense secretary said. The Pentagon's counterterrorism strategy in Africa has been strained as two key partners, Chad and Niger, ousted U.S. forces last year and took over key bases that the U.S. military had used to train and conduct missions against terrorist groups across the Sahel, the vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert. As per the International Crisis Group, the number of ISIS militants in Somalia is likely to be in the hundreds, with most of them scattered in the Cal Miskaat mountains in Puntland's Bari region. (With inputs from agencies)

'WILL FIND AND KILL YOU': Trump's stern warning as US conducts air strikes on IS targets in Somalia

Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a compromise deal, signaling a breakthrough in their longstanding tensions. The agreement was finalized in Ankara, marking a significant step towards improved diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Somalia, Ethiopia Agree On Compromise To End Tensions, Turkish Leader Says

Somalia and Ethiopia Reach Agreement to Resolve Tensions, Says Turkish Leader

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, leader of Somaliland’s opposition, has been elected president of the breakaway region of Somalia. 'Irro’ took over 60 percent of the vote having pledged to push efforts to gain international recognition for the region.

Somaliland: Opposition 'Irro' Trumps Bihi, Becomes New President

Thousands of security cameras have been placed throughout the capital of Somalia to keep an eye on al-Shabaab Insurgent movements and also to reassure citizens but the move has caused business owners to fear retaliatory attacks. Watch our report to know more.

Somalia: Govt's Goal To Monitor & Capture Activity Of AL Shabaab Militants

At least 37 civilians were killed and 212 were injured in an explosion at a popular beach restaurant in the Somali capital late on Friday, the health minister said, an attack the government blamed on militant Islamist group al Shabaab.

Somalia: Death toll hits 37 after Al-Shabaab attacks Mogadishu beach

At least 32 people were killed and several others injured after a suicide bomber and gunmen targeted a popular beachfront location in the Somali capital. Watch in for more details!

Somali beach attack kills 32, at least 63 wounded

Five people were killed in a powerful car bomb blast late Sunday at a cafe in the Somali capital Mogadishu that was packed with football fans watching the Euro 2024 final, local media said, citing police.

Images posted online showed a huge fireball and plumes of smoke billowing into the night sky as the explosion ripped through the popular restaurant in the centre of the city.

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🇸🇴🚨‼️ BREAKING: Explosion at a Coffee Shop in Mogadishu, Somalia, Results in Casualties. 
 
Local sources report that a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device at Top Coffee, a popular coffee shop in Mogadishu, Somalia, resulting in multiple casualties. <a href="https://t.co/b2PV1dKt5l">pic.twitter.com/b2PV1dKt5l</a>
— TabZ (@TabZLIVE) <a href="https://twitter.com/TabZLIVE/status/1812584746763084142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"A car bomb detonated tonight outside Top Coffee Restaurant... placed by Kharijite terrorists," the Somali National News Agency reported, using the term officials adopt to describe the Al-Qaeda linked Al-Shabaab jihadist group.

"Preliminary police reports confirm five fatalities and around 20 injuries," SONNA cited police spokesman Major Abdifitah Aden Hassan as telling state media.

Somali National Television reported the same information about the bombing, which took place as young men were watching the match between Spain and England.

An AFP journalist said firefighters, police, and ambulances had rushed to the scene of the explosion.

Police have cordoned off the area, which is close to the presidential palace compound known as Villa Somalia and was very busy at the time of the bombing.

Al-Shabaab has been waging a bloody insurgency against Somalia's fragile federal government for more than 17 years and has carried out numerous bombings in Mogadishu and other parts of the country.

<h2>Government offensive</h2>

There had been a relative lull in attacks in recent months as the government presses on with an offensive against the Islamist militants.

But on Saturday, five inmates said to be Al-Shabaab fighters were killed in a shootout with prison guards in an attempted jail break from the main prison in Mogadishu.

Three guards were also killed and 18 others wounded in the confrontation, prison officials said, after the prisoners managed to get hold of weapons.

Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed "all-out" war against the jihadists and government troops have joined forces with local clan militias in a military campaign supported by an African Union force and US air strikes.

But the offensive has suffered setbacks, with Al-Shabaab earlier this year claiming it had taken multiple locations in the centre of the country.

Although driven out of the capital by AU forces in 2011, Al-Shabaab still has a strong presence in rural Somalia.

It has carried out repeated attacks against political, security and civilian targets, mostly in Somalia but also in neighbouring countries including Kenya.

Somalia last month called for the African Union to slow the planned withdrawal of its forces from the troubled country.

UN resolutions called for troop numbers in the AU peacekeeping mission, known as ATMIS, to be reduced to zero by December 31 with security handed over to the Somali army and police.

The third and penultimate phase was to see the departure of 4,000 soldiers out of a total 13,500 ATMIS troops by the end of June.

But, following a request from Somalia's government to see only 2,000 troops leave in June and the remaining 2,000 in September, the AU Peace and Security Council said it "strongly supports... a phased approach" to the drawdown.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Five people were killed in a powerful car bomb blast late Sunday at a cafe in the Somali capital Mogadishu that was packed with football fans watching the Euro 2024 final, local media said, citing police.

Five people were killed in a powerful car bomb blast late Sunday at a cafe in the Somali capital Mogadishu that was packed with football fans watching the Euro 2024 final, local media said, citing police. Images posted online showed a huge fireball and plumes of smoke billowing into the night sky as the explosion ripped through the popular restaurant in the centre of the city. 🇸🇴🚨‼️ BREAKING: Explosion at a Coffee Shop in Mogadishu, Somalia, Results in Casualties. Local sources report that a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device at Top Coffee, a popular coffee shop in Mogadishu, Somalia, resulting in multiple casualties. pic.twitter.com/b2PV1dKt5l — TabZ (@TabZLIVE) July 14, 2024 × "A car bomb detonated tonight outside Top Coffee Restaurant... placed by Kharijite terrorists," the Somali National News Agency reported, using the term officials adopt to describe the Al-Qaeda linked Al-Shabaab jihadist group. "Preliminary police reports confirm five fatalities and around 20 injuries," SONNA cited police spokesman Major Abdifitah Aden Hassan as telling state media. Somali National Television reported the same information about the bombing, which took place as young men were watching the match between Spain and England. An AFP journalist said firefighters, police, and ambulances had rushed to the scene of the explosion. Police have cordoned off the area, which is close to the presidential palace compound known as Villa Somalia and was very busy at the time of the bombing. Al-Shabaab has been waging a bloody insurgency against Somalia's fragile federal government for more than 17 years and has carried out numerous bombings in Mogadishu and other parts of the country. Government offensive There had been a relative lull in attacks in recent months as the government presses on with an offensive against the Islamist militants. But on Saturday, five inmates said to be Al-Shabaab fighters were killed in a shootout with prison guards in an attempted jail break from the main prison in Mogadishu. Three guards were also killed and 18 others wounded in the confrontation, prison officials said, after the prisoners managed to get hold of weapons. Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed "all-out" war against the jihadists and government troops have joined forces with local clan militias in a military campaign supported by an African Union force and US air strikes. But the offensive has suffered setbacks, with Al-Shabaab earlier this year claiming it had taken multiple locations in the centre of the country. Although driven out of the capital by AU forces in 2011, Al-Shabaab still has a strong presence in rural Somalia. It has carried out repeated attacks against political, security and civilian targets, mostly in Somalia but also in neighbouring countries including Kenya. Somalia last month called for the African Union to slow the planned withdrawal of its forces from the troubled country. UN resolutions called for troop numbers in the AU peacekeeping mission, known as ATMIS, to be reduced to zero by December 31 with security handed over to the Somali army and police. The third and penultimate phase was to see the departure of 4,000 soldiers out of a total 13,500 ATMIS troops by the end of June. But, following a request from Somalia's government to see only 2,000 troops leave in June and the remaining 2,000 in September, the AU Peace and Security Council said it "strongly supports... a phased approach" to the drawdown. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mogadishu car bomb blast: 5 dead, 20 injured at packed cafe during Euro 2024 match

In a major shift in Somalia, women have joined the male-dominated traffic police to help control congestion particularly in the capital Mogadishu.The role was previously off-limits for women in the conservative Muslim nation, where they traditionally worked only behind desks in administrative jobs.

Somalia: Women patrolling streets of Mogadishu

Somalia has long suffered from food insecurity. However, a new crop of young and ambitious farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs are driving an agricultural revolution by introducing modern agricultural practices. Simple greenhouses allow farmers to produce fruit and vegetables all year round, increasing food security for the residents of Mogadishu.

Greenhouses improving food security in Somalia

<o:p></o:p>

The maritime industry is facing renewed challenges as Somali pirates return to the seas, adding to the existing global shipping crisis. <o:p></o:p>

As reported by Reuters, the recent incident involving a Bangladeshi-owned bulk carrier, the Abdullah, highlights the escalating threat. <o:p></o:p>

Despite sending out distress signals, the crew was unable to prevent the pirates from boarding the vessel and taking the captain and second officer hostage.<o:p></o:p>

Chief Officer Atiq Ullah Khan, in an audio message to the ship's owners, reassured, "By the grace of Allah no one has been harmed so far." <o:p></o:p>

However, the pirates confiscated the crew's phones shortly after. <o:p></o:p>

The Abdullah is currently anchored off the coast of Somalia, becoming the latest victim in the resurgence of piracy that international navies had previously believed to be under control.<o:p></o:p>

Rising Incidents and associated costs<o:p></o:p>

Since November, more than 20 attempted hijackings have been reported, driving up costs for armed security guards and insurance coverage. <o:p></o:p>

Industry representatives indicate that the recent surge in piracy has also raised concerns about potential ransom payments. <o:p></o:p>

Two Somali gang members disclosed that they are exploiting the distractions caused by Houthi strikes to resume piracy activities after nearly a decade of dormancy.<o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited a pirate financier known as Ismail Isse, who said, "They took this chance because the international naval forces that operate off the coast of Somalia reduced their operations." <o:p></o:p>

Isse, who helped fund a previous hijacking, spoke to Reuters from Hul Anod, a coastal area in Somalia's semi-autonomous north-eastern region of Puntland.<o:p></o:p>

While the current threat level is not as severe as it was between 2008 and 2014, regional officials and industry sources express concerns that the problem could escalate further. <o:p></o:p>

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud highlighted the importance of addressing the issue early, stating, "If we do not stop it while it's still in its infancy, it can become the same as it was."<o:p></o:p>

International responses and deterrence efforts<o:p></o:p>

Over the weekend, the Indian Navy successfully intercepted and freed the Ruen, a ship sailing under Malta's flag, which may have been used as a launchpad for attacking the Abdullah. <o:p></o:p>

All 35 pirates aboard surrendered, and the 17 hostages were rescued without injuries. <o:p></o:p>

Cyrus Mody, deputy director of the International Chamber of Commerce's anti-crime arm, commented on the intervention.<o:p></o:p>

"This intervention does show that the risk/reward is very much against the pirates, and hopefully that will make them think a few times over," he said.<o:p></o:p>

However, a Bangladeshi foreign ministry official expressed reservations about military interventions close to the Somali coast. <o:p></o:p>

The official highlighted the advantages pirates possess in these waters and indicated that the government was "not in favour of any kind of military action" to free the Abdullah.<o:p></o:p>

Economic impact and security measures<o:p></o:p>

The waters off Somalia are among the world's busiest shipping lanes, with an estimated 20,000 vessels passing through annually. <o:p></o:p>

At their peak in 2011, Somali pirates launched 237 attacks, holding hundreds of hostages and costing the global economy about $7 billion, including ransoms. <o:p></o:p>

Although the current rate of attacks is lower, the pirates are primarily targeting smaller vessels in less patrolled waters.<o:p></o:p>

The escalating threat has led to an increase in war risk premiums and private armed guard costs. <o:p></o:p>

Insurance industry officials report that premiums are becoming more expensive for voyages through the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, adding hundreds of thousands of dollars to typical voyage costs. <o:p></o:p>

The cost to hire a private armed guard team has surged by around 50 per cent in February, ranging between $4,000 and $15,000 for a three-day period.<o:p></o:p>

International collaboration and future strategies<o:p></o:p>

In response to the previous wave of piracy attacks, international navies had deployed up to 20 warships from 14 different countries to patrol the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean shipping lanes. <o:p></o:p>

While these measures significantly reduced pirate attacks, the subsequent reduction in the number of patrolling warships has allowed piracy to resurface.<o:p></o:p>

John Steed, former head of the counter-piracy unit at the UN Political Office for Somalia, highlighted the inconsistency in patrolling efforts, stating, "Countries' ships dip in and out of the various missions and back to national command." <o:p></o:p>

EUNAVFOR, the US State Department, and the British navy have all expressed their commitment to assisting Somalia in tackling piracy but have not commented on whether patrols are stretched too thin or if additional resources will be allocated.<o:p></o:p>

Somalia's role and law enforcement capacity<o:p></o:p>

President Mohamud noted the need to bolster Somalia's law enforcement capacity at sea and on land, rather than relying solely on international ships. <o:p></o:p>

Despite having 720 trained members in the coast guard, only one of its four boats is functional. <o:p></o:p>

Limited resources also plague the maritime police forces in Mogadishu, Puntland, and the breakaway Somaliland region.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

The maritime industry is facing renewed challenges as Somali pirates return to the seas, adding to the existing global shipping crisis. As reported by Reuters, the recent incident involving a Bangladeshi-owned bulk carrier, the Abdullah, highlights the escalating threat.

The maritime industry is facing renewed challenges as Somali pirates return to the seas, adding to the existing global shipping crisis. As reported by Reuters, the recent incident involving a Bangladeshi-owned bulk carrier, the Abdullah, highlights the escalating threat. Despite sending out distress signals, the crew was unable to prevent the pirates from boarding the vessel and taking the captain and second officer hostage. Chief Officer Atiq Ullah Khan, in an audio message to the ship's owners, reassured, "By the grace of Allah no one has been harmed so far." However, the pirates confiscated the crew's phones shortly after. The Abdullah is currently anchored off the coast of Somalia, becoming the latest victim in the resurgence of piracy that international navies had previously believed to be under control. Rising Incidents and associated costs Since November, more than 20 attempted hijackings have been reported, driving up costs for armed security guards and insurance coverage. Industry representatives indicate that the recent surge in piracy has also raised concerns about potential ransom payments. Two Somali gang members disclosed that they are exploiting the distractions caused by Houthi strikes to resume piracy activities after nearly a decade of dormancy. Reuters cited a pirate financier known as Ismail Isse, who said, "They took this chance because the international naval forces that operate off the coast of Somalia reduced their operations." Isse, who helped fund a previous hijacking, spoke to Reuters from Hul Anod, a coastal area in Somalia's semi-autonomous north-eastern region of Puntland. While the current threat level is not as severe as it was between 2008 and 2014, regional officials and industry sources express concerns that the problem could escalate further. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud highlighted the importance of addressing the issue early, stating, "If we do not stop it while it's still in its infancy, it can become the same as it was." International responses and deterrence efforts Over the weekend, the Indian Navy successfully intercepted and freed the Ruen, a ship sailing under Malta's flag, which may have been used as a launchpad for attacking the Abdullah. All 35 pirates aboard surrendered, and the 17 hostages were rescued without injuries. Cyrus Mody, deputy director of the International Chamber of Commerce's anti-crime arm, commented on the intervention. "This intervention does show that the risk/reward is very much against the pirates, and hopefully that will make them think a few times over," he said. However, a Bangladeshi foreign ministry official expressed reservations about military interventions close to the Somali coast. The official highlighted the advantages pirates possess in these waters and indicated that the government was "not in favour of any kind of military action" to free the Abdullah. Economic impact and security measures The waters off Somalia are among the world's busiest shipping lanes, with an estimated 20,000 vessels passing through annually. At their peak in 2011, Somali pirates launched 237 attacks, holding hundreds of hostages and costing the global economy about $7 billion, including ransoms. Although the current rate of attacks is lower, the pirates are primarily targeting smaller vessels in less patrolled waters. The escalating threat has led to an increase in war risk premiums and private armed guard costs. Insurance industry officials report that premiums are becoming more expensive for voyages through the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, adding hundreds of thousands of dollars to typical voyage costs. The cost to hire a private armed guard team has surged by around 50 per cent in February, ranging between $4,000 and $15,000 for a three-day period. International collaboration and future strategies In response to the previous wave of piracy attacks, international navies had deployed up to 20 warships from 14 different countries to patrol the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean shipping lanes. While these measures significantly reduced pirate attacks, the subsequent reduction in the number of patrolling warships has allowed piracy to resurface. John Steed, former head of the counter-piracy unit at the UN Political Office for Somalia, highlighted the inconsistency in patrolling efforts, stating, "Countries' ships dip in and out of the various missions and back to national command." EUNAVFOR, the US State Department, and the British navy have all expressed their commitment to assisting Somalia in tackling piracy but have not commented on whether patrols are stretched too thin or if additional resources will be allocated. Somalia's role and law enforcement capacity President Mohamud noted the need to bolster Somalia's law enforcement capacity at sea and on land, rather than relying solely on international ships. Despite having 720 trained members in the coast guard, only one of its four boats is functional. Limited resources also plague the maritime police forces in Mogadishu, Puntland, and the breakaway Somaliland region. (With inputs from Reuters)

Somali pirates return, amplifying global shipping concerns: Report

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