Somali forces dismantled a 24-hour siege by al-Shabab militants at the Cairo Hotel in Beledwyne, reportedly killing all attackers. The assault began with a car bomb, resulting in an unclear number of civilian deaths as investigations continue. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility, reaffirming the group’s persistent threat in the region.
On a recent Wednesday, Somali forces concluded a 24-hour siege at the Cairo Hotel in Beledwyne, effectively neutralizing all al-Shabab militants involved in the attack. Initial reports indicated an unspecified number of fatalities, including security forces and civilians, as officials continue to assess the situation.
The violence erupted following a car bomb explosion at the Cairo Hotel, which is frequented by traditional elders and military personnel engaged in strategizing against al-Shabab. Mayor Omar Alasow proclaimed that security forces had “successfully ended the siege,” noting the deaths of six assailants, while civilian casualties remain unclear.
Al-Shabab, an al-Qaida-affiliated group, swiftly claimed responsibility for the attack. Beledwyne, located approximately 335 kilometers north of Mogadishu, serves as the capital of Hiran region and is crucial in the ongoing military campaign against al-Shabab.
Reports of casualties varied significantly, with local resident Muhsin Abdullahi asserting that six people, including two prominent traditional elders, perished in the incident. Additionally, witness Hussein Jeelle Raage recounted that at least 11 individuals, including three of his family members, had been reported dead.
Visual evidence shared via social media depicted substantial damage at the hotel, with a large plume of smoke indicating the magnitude of the attack. Al-Shabab remains a persistent threat in Somalia, frequently targeting governmental and military entities within the region despite ongoing military efforts.
In summary, Somali security forces have successfully ended the siege at the Cairo Hotel, thereby eliminating all involved al-Shabab militants. This incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by al-Shabab in Nigeria, particularly towards government and military targets. The situation continues to evolve as authorities assess the impact, including civilian casualties, highlighting the volatile security landscape in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
