Mogadishu, Somalia – Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has strongly condemned the recent attack targeting young recruits at the Damaanyo military camp in Mogadishu. He accused the federal government of failing in its responsibility to secure the area and prevent such violent incidents.

Sharif Sheikh Ahmed denounced the attack carried out by the militant group Al-Shabaab, which deliberately targeted youth seeking to join Somalia’s armed forces. He described the group as merciless and falsely invoking the name of Islam to justify their terror.

“This brutal attack at the Damaanyo camp highlights the ruthless nature of those without conscience who oppose the Somali people,” Sharif Sheikh said.

He further criticized the federal government and security agencies for their failure to fully secure the location, which he said allowed militants to target young defenders of the nation.

The attack occurred on May 18 2025 morning, targeting a long queue of recruits outside the Damaanyo camp gate. At least 10 people were reportedly killed, according to eyewitnesses cited by Reuters.

Medical officials at Madina Hospital confirmed to Dawan Media that 12 individuals were admitted, with 11 injured and one deceased.

The suicide bomber detonated explosives while the recruits were lined up outside the camp.

The government stated it had taken measures to prevent greater casualties and pledged to release further information on the extent of the damage.