Official investigation reports or statements from Somali security forces

Attempted Jailbreak at Mogadishu Central Prison Foiled, 8 Dead Including Militant Inmates and Guards

Jul 13, 2024, 08:23 AM

An attempted jailbreak at Mogadishu’s central prison on Saturday resulted in a violent clash between inmates and security forces. Initial reports indicate that the incident began when several inmates, including suspected militants, obtained weapons such as AK47s and hand grenades. The inmates fired guns and threw grenades at the guards, leading to sustained gunfire and explosions within the prison complex. Somali security forces swiftly responded, neutralizing the threat. Five militant inmates and three prison guards were killed, while three more guards and 18 inmates were injured. At least four armed prisoners were neutralised in the clash on Saturday morning. The deceased inmates were identified as members of the Al-Shabaab jihadist group, previously sentenced to death. The Somali Custodial Corps displayed the bodies of the inmates to underscore their efforts in maintaining prison security. A total of eight people died in the incident.