Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has condemned the October 4, 2025, al-Shabaab attack on Godka Jilacow prison in Mogadishu, Somalia. The assault, which took place in the heart of the capital, sparked hours of chaos before Somali security forces regained control.
In a statement released on Sunday, Youssouf expressed his deep condolences to the Government and people of Somalia, particularly to the families of those affected. He also wished a quick recovery to the injured. “The Chairperson assures the Somali Government of the full solidarity and unwavering commitment of the African Union to neutralize the pervasive threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism in Somalia, the Horn of Africa, and across the continent,” the AU statement read.
Youssouf emphasized that the African Union remains fully committed to supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism. He urged AU Member States — including Troop and Police Contributing Countries — as well as the wider international community, to strengthen their assistance to Somalia and the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This, he said, would help intensify efforts to degrade and eliminate al-Shabaab and other extremist networks that continue to destabilize the region.
According to Somali authorities, government forces ended a six-hour siege at the prison after neutralizing all seven attackers. No civilians or security officers were reported killed during the assault. Officials confirmed that the attack had been claimed by al-Shabaab, a militant group linked to al-Qaeda, notorious for carrying out deadly attacks across Somalia targeting government institutions, security forces, and civilians.
Security analysts say the prison attack appeared to be a direct attempt to undermine ongoing government reforms and to project al-Shabaab’s continued influence despite sustained military pressure. The group has faced significant setbacks in recent months as Somali and allied forces intensify joint operations to reclaim territories under militant control.
The attack also came just hours after Somalia’s federal government lifted several long-standing roadblocks in Mogadishu. The barriers, which had been in place for years to protect key government facilities, were removed in an effort to ease movement and boost business activity in the capital. Many residents had long complained that the checkpoints disrupted traffic and trade. The timing of the attack has led to renewed debates about balancing public security with normal urban life.
In recent years, Somalia has made notable progress in rebuilding its security institutions and regaining stability, with support from international partners and regional organizations such as the African Union. However, the latest attack serves as a stark reminder that the threat of terrorism remains persistent.
Youssouf’s statement reaffirmed the AU’s pledge to stand by Somalia through continued security cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint counter-terrorism efforts. He called for unity and resilience among Somali citizens and urged the international community not to waver in its support. The African Union, he said, would continue to work closely with the Somali Government to build lasting peace and strengthen institutions capable of preventing future attacks.
Despite the tragedy, many Somalis have praised their security forces for their swift and effective response, which prevented greater loss of life. The government’s ability to contain the situation within hours was seen as a sign of improved preparedness and coordination among security agencies.
As Somalia continues its path toward stability, regional leaders and global partners are expected to reaffirm their commitment to supporting peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa.
