Security stepped up in Baidoa over fears of Ramadan attacks by militants

By: Ahmed Mohamed Adan 

Southwest state officials have said that security had been stepped up in and around the capital administrative of Southwest, Baidoa  in the run-up to the holy month of Ramadan.

Southwest minister for militia disarmament minister, Hassan Hussen Mohamed said stringent measures have been put in place to enhance safety during the Ramadan.

Mr Mohamed warned criminals not to take advantage of the month of fasting to commit crime.

The minister said that patrols would be frequent, at the same time cautioning officers to carry out their duties within the legal confines.

“We are carrying out patrols with consideration that this is a holy month and that we need to give our people sufficient time for worship,” said Mohamed.

He added “”We will not allow the terrorists to disrupt peace for the faithful.”

Though Al-Shabaab was pushed out of key towns in South and Central Somalia, the group has been able to attack several towns in Somalia.

In previous Ramadhan, the group launched deadly attacks suicide bombs, raids on military bases.