MOGADISHU — An explosion occurred this evening near the Godka Jilicow Prison in Boondheere district, Mogadishu, followed by intense gunfire around the area. Eyewitnesses reported that the blast was immediately followed by heavy shooting near the high-security facility managed by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).

The Federal Government of Somalia has confirmed the incident, describing it as an ongoing counter-operation against militants from the Al-Shabaab group who launched the attack with a vehicle-borne explosive device.

“Militants belonging to the Khawarij group carried out a suicide attack on the Godka Jilicow facility, one of the key installations of NISA. The attackers used a vehicle disguised as a NISA security car. Several of the assailants have been shot dead, and the final phase of the security operation is underway,” the government said in an official statement.

Godka Jilicow is one of Somalia’s most fortified detention centers, where individuals convicted of serious crimes are held under tight security.

The attack coincides with the Federal Government’s new security measures in Mogadishu, including the reopening of key roads that had been blocked for months due to security concerns. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre today implemented the Cabinet’s July 24, 2025, decision to reopen the so-called “stone-blocked” roads, easing traffic congestion and improving the movement of people and goods across the capital.