A roadside bomb targeted President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy in Mogadishu, resulting in at least three reported deaths. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for this attack near the presidential palace. The British Embassy condemned the act and reiterated support for Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts, which have escalated in recent months against the militant group.
On Tuesday, a roadside bomb exploded near Somalia’s presidential palace, targeting the convoy of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, according to the Somali government. The Information Ministry described the attack as a “cowardly act of desperation” by the militant group al-Shabab, which has claimed responsibility for the incident. Although no official death toll was released, witnesses reported seeing several bodies at the scene, while the president himself remained unharmed.
Al-Shabab, known for its opposition to Somalia’s federal government, frequently conducts bombings against government officials and military personnel. The group maintains control over parts of rural Somalia and continues to pose a considerable threat, despite ongoing military operations by both the Somali government and African Union peacekeepers. The explosion occurred shortly after the president departed the palace to oversee military activities in Middle Shabelle.
Witnesses described the harrowing scene, with one observing three bodies lying motionless, covered in debris. The British Embassy in Mogadishu condemned the attack, reaffirming its support for Somalia’s counterterrorism initiatives. A statement from the embassy underscored the UK’s commitment as a partner in combating the violent extremism embodied by al-Shabab. In recent months, the Somali government has intensified military efforts against al-Shabab, achieving territorial advancements in several regions, including Middle Shabelle.
In summary, the roadside bomb attack in Mogadishu highlights the ongoing challenges posed by al-Shabab to Somalia’s security and governance. The resilience of the Somali government and its international partners, exemplified by the UK’s support, remains crucial in the fight against extremism. While the president escaped unharmed, the reported casualties signify the ongoing peril faced by both officials and civilians in the region.
Original Source: www.wral.com
