Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
The Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism has raised concern over growing terrorist threats along the Somalia-Kenya border during the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement released on Monday, the observatory warned that the militant group Al-Shabaab is escalating violence as part of what it described as a “bloody strategy” aimed at spreading fear, tightening its grip on communities, and carrying out attacks across borders.
According to the statement, the latest wave of violence began last Saturday night in southern Somalia. Militants publicly executed 10 civilians by firing squad in the towns of Buale in Middle Juba and Qunyo Barrow in Lower Shabelle. The victims were accused of spying for Somalia’s federal government and foreign entities. The executions were carried out in front of local residents, a move the observatory said was designed to intimidate communities and reinforce the group’s authority in areas under its control.
The observatory stressed that the timing of the attacks during Ramadan is not accidental. It said Al-Shabaab often increases its operations during religious seasons, attempting to manipulate religious sentiment and draw attention to its activities. By staging public killings and spreading fear, the group seeks to send a message to those who might oppose it while strengthening its dominance over vulnerable populations.
Concerns have also grown over threats beyond Somalia’s borders. A recent security report revealed that Kenyan intelligence services successfully disrupted a major terrorist plot that was planned to take place in Nairobi during Ramadan. Authorities said the planned attack was intended to target religious gatherings in the capital and cause widespread instability.
Kenyan security agencies carried out pre-emptive operations that led to the seizure of weapons and explosives. Officials said these actions prevented what could have been a large-scale attack. The observatory praised Kenya’s proactive security measures, noting that early intervention and intelligence-sharing are critical in stopping such threats before they can cause harm.
The statement described Al-Shabaab’s actions as rooted in what it called a “deviant ideological framework.” It explained that the group frequently tries to exploit important religious periods to amplify its message and intensify its operations. Instead of respecting the spiritual significance of Ramadan, the militants use the occasion to advance violent objectives and deepen fear among civilians.
The observatory also warned that Al-Shabaab remains one of the most dangerous armed groups in the Horn of Africa. Its ability to operate across borders, plan coordinated attacks, and target civilians continues to pose serious security challenges for both Somalia and neighboring Kenya. The group’s presence along the porous border has long been a concern, as it allows militants to move and plan attacks with relative ease.
At the same time, the observatory emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and vigilance. It called for sustained security efforts, intelligence coordination, and community awareness to counter extremist threats, especially during sensitive periods like Ramadan.
While Kenyan authorities have demonstrated that planned attacks can be prevented through timely action, the warning serves as a reminder that the threat remains active. The observatory urged governments and communities alike to remain alert and united against extremist violence, particularly as Al-Shabaab appears determined to escalate its activities during the holy month.