MOGADISHU – Somali Security forces in Mogadishu late Friday intercepted a tuk-tuk loaded with mortars and improvised explosive devices allegedly prepared by Al-Shabaab, following intelligence provided by residents, officials said.
Authorities said the operation took place at around 23:40 local time after security units tracked suspicious movements in and around the Deyniile District.
During the raid, forces seized a tuk-tuk carrying five mortar shells concealed inside vegetable sacks, which they said were intended to be smuggled into the capital.
The driver reportedly attempted to detonate the tuk-tuk and its cargo upon realizing he was about to be apprehended, but security forces thwarted the attempt. Photographs released by officials showed the seized mortars alongside the tuk-tuk used to transport them.
Security officials in Mogadishu thanked residents for sharing intelligence that led to the operation, pledging to continue round-the-clock efforts to safeguard the capital and prevent further attacks.
