Al-Shabaab Claims Responsibility for Bombing Near Somali Presidential Convoy
Al-Shabaab detonated a bomb in Mogadishu after a presidential convoy passed, damaging buildings and injuring civilians. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud remains unharmed as he prepares for an upcoming military offensive against Al-Shabaab, amidst ongoing conflict in the region.
On Tuesday, Al-Shabaab detonated a bomb in Mogadishu shortly after a presidential convoy had passed, resulting in the destruction of a building and damage to vehicles. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was en route to Hirshabelle state, where the military is set to launch an offensive against Al-Shabaab.
A security official reported to AFP that the explosion occurred along the Hamar-Jajab road, devastating a civilian structure. Witness Nurto Ali recounted hearing a significant blast as the presidential convoy passed, while he observed a man trapped beneath debris.
Somali National Security Advisor Hussein Sheikh Ali assured on X that the president was unharmed and asserted that “the nation cannot be intimidated.” Witness Farhan Abdullahi informed AFP that numerous individuals were injured due to the blast impacting a nearby vehicle.
Al-Shabaab has taken responsibility for this attack, occurring one week after the group assaulted a hotel in central Somalia, killing nine individuals. The group has been in conflict with the federal government for over 15 years, conducting lethal operations in Mogadishu and surrounding regions.
Despite being expelled from the city by African Union forces in 2011, Al-Shabaab retains a presence in rural areas. President Mohamud has vowed a comprehensive military campaign against the group, collaborating with local militias, African Union forces, and conducting military actions facilitated by US air strikes.
In summation, Al-Shabaab’s recent bombing in Mogadishu illustrates the ongoing conflict between the group and the Somali government. With President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s commitment to a military offensive and backing from local militias and international forces, the situation remains critical. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab and the challenges facing security in Somalia.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
