Mogadishu, Somalia: Last evening, a horrifying attack unfolded near the picturesque Lido Beach in Mogadishu, Somalia. A beachside hotel was targeted by a suicide bomber, followed by gunfire, resulting in the loss of 32 lives and injuries to 63 others. Here are the key details:
- The Incident:
- A hotel near Lido Beach was bombed, and gunmen opened fire, plunging the area into chaos.
- Security forces swiftly cordoned off the scene after receiving distressing information.
- Eyewitnesses and officials reported the harrowing events.
- Al-Shabab’s Involvement:
- Al-Qaeda’s East Africa affiliate, Al-Shabab, claimed responsibility for the attack via its radio broadcast.
- The extremist group’s fighters ruthlessly assaulted the hotel, leaving devastation in their wake.
- Lido Beach: A Targeted Haven:
- Lido Beach, a popular weekend spot for Somalis, was bustling on Friday night when tragedy struck.
- Notably, this isn’t the first time the area has been targeted. Last year, nine lives were lost in a similar attack.
- Eyewitness Accounts:
- Mohammad Moalim, an eyewitness, vividly described the horror. He saw the attacker, clad in an explosive-laden jacket, moments before the detonation. The blast claimed lives, including some of Moalim’s colleagues.
- Another witness, Abdisalam Adam, recounted seeing wounded people lying on the ground. He helped transport them to the hospital.
- Casualties and Response:
- Police spokesperson Major Abdifatah Aden Hassa confirmed that one soldier lost their life in the attack, while the remaining victims were civilians.
- An additional soldier sustained injuries during the violent incident.
- The explosion was followed by gunfire, adding to the chaos and fear.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabab in Somalia. Despite efforts to improve security, the group continues to carry out attacks, extorting millions of dollars annually while seeking to impose its radical ideology. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
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