MOGADISHU, Somalia – People in Mogadishu are living in fear as Al-Shabaab targets businesses and individuals who comply with the government’s new rule to install CCTV cameras. The initiative, aimed at improving security in the capital has led to a wave of deadly attacks by Alshabab group.

Since October, at least 23 violent incidents have been reported in Mogadishu, resulting in 37 deaths, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED). Nearly half of these attacks are tied to Al-Shabaab’s opposition to the cameras, which they see as a threat to their control.

The violence has disrupted daily life in many neighborhoods. Markets in Yaqshid and Heliwa have closed after threats from the group. “We’re stuck in the middle,” said a shopkeeper in Yaqshid. “If we follow the government’s rules, Al-Shabaab comes after us. If we don’t, we risk trouble with the authorities.”

The consequences have been severe. On October 28, four businessmen were killed in the Misaanka Dhuhusha neighborhood. A few weeks later, two civilians lost their lives in Sarkuus. Many are now afraid to leave their homes or run their businesses, fearing they could be next.

The CCTV program, introduced by the government in 2023, aims to improve security by exposing Al-Shabaab’s activities, including the taxes they force businesses to pay. While it has made some progress in weakening the group’s hold, it has also made civilians a target.

“Al-Shabaab wants to send a message: don’t cooperate with the government,” said security analyst Hassan Ali. The group relies on these businesses for funding and sees the cameras as a direct threat to their operations.For many in Mogadishu, the situation is heartbreaking. “We just want to live and work in peace,” said one local resident. But with no safe options, people are left wondering how long they can endure this impossible situation.