Mogadishu Suicide Bombing at Military Recruitment Center Kills 13

May 18, 2025

A devastating suicide bombing struck a military recruitment center in Mogadishu, Somalia, on Sunday, killing at least 13 people and injuring 21 others, according to local eyewitnesses and security officials.

The attack occurred at the Damanyo military camp, where dozens of young Somali men had gathered in hopes of enlisting in the national armed forces. Witnesses reported that the assailant, posing as a prospective recruit, detonated an explosive device while standing in line with others waiting to register.

“There was a loud explosion, and immediately people began running in all directions. Bodies were everywhere,” said Abdulkadir Hassan Mohamed, a tuk-tuk driver who was present at the scene. “It was horrifying.”

A Somali soldier stationed at the camp, who identified himself only as Hussein, confirmed that the attacker had blended in with the crowd before detonating his suicide vest. “The explosion was devastating,” he said. “I saw many casualties. The dead include five civilians who were simply passing by.”

As of now, there has been no official claim of responsibility. However, suspicion immediately fell on al-Shabab, the al-Qaida-linked Islamist militant group that has waged a brutal insurgency against the Somali government for more than a decade. The group frequently targets military installations, government buildings, and public venues in Mogadishu and throughout the country.

This latest bombing echoes a deadly pattern. In July 2023, a similar suicide attack at the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy in Mogadishu claimed the lives of 25 soldiers and wounded more than 70. That attack was later claimed by al-Shabab.

Sunday’s incident comes amid renewed efforts by the Somali government and international partners to rebuild and strengthen the country’s security forces. Somalia remains one of the most fragile states in the world, grappling with political instability, poverty, and the constant threat of extremist violence.

Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to identify the bomber’s network and prevent future attacks. Meanwhile, hospitals in Mogadishu are treating the wounded, and families of the victims are mourning their loss.

Security experts warn that such attacks may intensify as the government increases recruitment and military operations against militant groups.