A militant attack in Beledweyne, Somalia, involved a car bomb explosion at the Cairo Hotel, killing at least six individuals, including two traditional elders. The attack prompted a fierce gunfight between attackers and security forces. Al-Shabab is suspected to be behind the attack, highlighting its ongoing threat in Somalia despite military efforts against them.
MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) – A car bomb explosion occurred on Tuesday at the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals, including two notable traditional elders. Witnesses report that the attack was directed against key local figures and military personnel currently involved in a government effort to combat the militant group al-Shabab.
The explosion led to a fierce exchange of gunfire as attackers invaded the hotel and engaged with security forces. Resident Muhsin Abdullahi informed The Associated Press that, “Six people, including two well-known traditional elders, were killed in the attack,” and noted that many others sustained injuries and required hospitalization.
Visuals shared online depicted thick black smoke rising from the hotel amidst severe structural damage. Although no group claimed immediate responsibility, al-Shabab has a history of targeting government officials and military forces in Somalia, asserting control over parts of the rural terrain. The group has remained a significant threat despite ongoing military efforts by Somali troops and African Union peacekeepers.
Beledweyne serves as the administrative center of the Hiran region and is situated approximately 335 kilometers (208 miles) from Mogadishu. It represents a strategic hub in Somalia’s persistent struggle against al-Shabab, which maintains affiliations with al-Qaida.
The militant attack on the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne resulted in the tragic loss of at least six lives, including prominent traditional elders. Despite efforts by the Somali government and African Union forces to counteract al-Shabab, the group continues to execute deadly assaults in the region. The strategic importance of Beledweyne underscores the ongoing challenges faced in the campaign against militancy in Somalia.
Original Source: www.wral.com
