AU mission in Somalia neutralises 439 IEDs, preventing 1,756 casualties since 2017

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has announced the successful neutralization of 439 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Somalia since 2017. This effort has significantly reduced the threat posed by such devices in the country.

Justin Smith, Chief of Mine Action in Somalia for the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), praised the cooperation between the Somali Security Forces (SSF), ATMIS, and the UN.

This collaboration has averted approximately 1,756 potential casualties, demonstrating the effectiveness of their joint efforts.

"In 2023 alone, ATMIS Search and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams found and cleared 74 per cent of devices assessed as targeting ATMIS troops, preventing a potential 150 ATMIS casualties," said Justin Smith.

UNMAS has played a crucial role in enabling troops to identify and defuse numerous IEDs planted by Al-Shabaab militants.

The report was tabled by Smith at the end of a three-day training session in Mogadishu, which focused on countering IEDs deployed by illegal armed groups, including Al-Shaabab.

The UN-supported training included 80 officers from the SSF and ATMIS.

It aimed to improve the SSF's ability to manage IED threats in Somalia's federal member states. The program provided comprehensive instruction on IED detection, disposal, and post-blast investigation techniques.

"This training is crucial for fulfilling the ATMIS mandate to weaken Al-Shabaab and support the Somali-led peace and security process," said Kindu Gezu, ATMIS military chief of staff.

Gezu emphasised the importance of ongoing vigilance in countering IED threats, noting that IEDs are the primary weapon used by Al-Shaabab in its asymmetric warfare.

During the training, participants reviewed Somalia's IED threats, the Somali National Army's threat assessment, and current counter-IED operations.

The discussions revolved around the continuous need for effective strategies and collaboration to manage and reduce the IED threat.

Col. Adan Abdullahi Ali, the Chief Engineer for the Somali National Army, thanked ATMIS, UNMAS, and UK-MST for giving the Somali Security Forces the necessary skills and equipment to help maintain peace and stability in Somalia.

Smith said ATMIS, UNMAS, and the SSF remain committed to their joint efforts to improve security and stability in Somalia.