JOWHAR, Somalia , May 22, 2026-An explosion was heard across several parts of Jowhar on Friday night, raising concern among residents in the capital of Hirshabelle State, according to local residents and security sources.
The blast was reportedly heard near the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in the Horseed neighborhood, particularly in the Isnaay area, where units of the 3rd Brigade of the Somali National Army are said to be stationed.
Residents in Jowhar reported a loud explosion that echoed across multiple neighborhoods in the city during the evening hours.
According to local residents, the sound of the blast was strongest around the Isnaay area, near a security complex housing CID offices and military units.
Security sources indicated that forces quickly moved to secure the area following the incident, sealing off roads leading into parts of the Horseed neighborhood.
Eyewitnesses said security personnel restricted movement around the vicinity shortly after the explosion was heard, while patrols were increased in surrounding areas.
The exact cause of the explosion has not been confirmed. Authorities have not stated whether it was caused by an improvised explosive device, mortar fire, or an accidental detonation within the security compound.
No group has claimed responsibility for the incident.
Casualties and Impact
There has been no official confirmation of casualties or damage linked to the explosion at the time of reporting.
Local residents said they saw heightened security activity in the aftermath, but details about possible injuries or structural damage remain unclear.
Security officials have not released any preliminary assessment regarding the scale or impact of the blast.
Government and Security Response
Security forces in Jowhar reportedly moved quickly to cordon off the area around the CID headquarters and nearby military installations.
According to security sources, investigations are underway to determine the origin and nature of the explosion.
Authorities have not yet issued an official public statement explaining the incident or confirming whether it is being treated as an attack or an internal security event.
Jowhar, the administrative capital of Hirshabelle State, has in the past experienced sporadic security incidents involving militant activity, targeted attacks on security installations, and unexplained explosions.
The area around government buildings and military installations is typically under heightened security due to the presence of Somali National Army units and law enforcement agencies.
The 3rd Brigade of the Somali National Army is among the units deployed in parts of Hirshabelle State to support local security operations and counterinsurgency efforts.
Security incidents in central Somalia often trigger swift lockdowns of affected areas while investigations are carried out, particularly when the cause of an explosion is not immediately identified.
Investigations are expected to continue as security forces work to determine the cause of the explosion and assess any possible damage or casualties.
Authorities are likely to issue further updates once preliminary findings are available, though no timeline has been provided.
Residents remain on alert as security operations continue in and around the Isnaay area of Jowhar.
The explosion in Jowhar highlights ongoing security vulnerabilities in key administrative centers of Hirshabelle State, where military and police installations remain central to stability efforts.
Unconfirmed explosions near security compounds often lead to heightened public concern, especially when official information is delayed or limited in the immediate aftermath.
The incident may increase pressure on local authorities to strengthen perimeter security around sensitive installations such as CID headquarters and military bases.