The Africa Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has kicked off a campaign tour across the Horn of Africa nation to rally Somalis, especially the youth, to counter violent extremism.
A statement from the pan-African body's mission said its police have visited the port city of Kismayo to educate youths and the general public about community policing and fighting against radicalization.
AMISOM Police Public Information Officer, Chief Inspector John Marete stressed the significance of such community engagements, which he said was an integral part of modern-day policing.
He said the engagements would remain key in all activities undertaken together with the federal and regional Somali police. Most of the terror attacks in Somalia are being committed by radicalized youth.
The statement said representatives of the business community, youth, women's groups and civil society pledged to work together with the Somali police and other security agencies, to foster peace in the area.
Jubbaland Police Commissioner Colonel Hassan Kheyre said they have planned to strengthen the collaboration between the community and the police.
"We as the police cannot fulfill our duties without the help of the society. These members of the community have to share with us information related to criminal acts, to enable the police respond accordingly," Kheyre said.
Meanwhile, a businessman escaped with injuries when a bomb planted in his car went off along Maka al-Mukarama road in Mogadishu's central business district.
Police said the car had been rigged with explosive devices and went off when the businessman tried to start the car.
the street is popular with African Union convoys and government vehicles.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK