The explosion, which was reportedly a landmine, targeted a convoy of Burundian soldiers who are part of the African Union mission. The attack took place as the convoy was traveling along a road in the Buurane area of the Middle Shabelle region, according to eyewitnesses.

Reports suggest that the explosion caused casualties among the Burundian forces. Subsequently, the soldiers opened fire, leading to additional civilian casualties. A local resident, who spoke to the media, confirmed that the explosion struck one of the Burundian army vehicles involved in the operation. The vehicle was destroyed, and several people were injured.

The witness also confirmed that the gunfire from the Burundian soldiers resulted in the death of a civilian herder from Buurane. “There was a problem here due to the explosion. The Burundian group was targeted. When the explosion happened, a poor camel herder was shot and died,” said the local resident.

The witness further stated that such incidents often occur when foreign forces open fire following an explosion, causing harm to civilians.

As of now, the Burundian army command has not issued any official statement regarding the explosion targeting their troops, who are engaged in operations against the Al-Shabaab group.

This attack comes amid ongoing military operations in the Middle Shabelle region, where the government and local forces are fighting to reclaim areas previously occupied by Al-Shabaab militants. The region remains a hotspot in the broader offensive against the insurgent group.