Bombing Targets President’s Convoy in Mogadishu, Al-Shabab Claims Responsibility
A roadside bomb targeted President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s convoy near Somalia’s presidential palace in Mogadishu. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack, described as a ‘cowardly act of desperation’ by the government. Eyewitnesses reported multiple fatalities, but the president was unharmed. The militant group continues to pose a significant threat to the Somali government.
On Tuesday, a roadside bomb exploded near Somalia’s presidential palace in Mogadishu, targeting the convoy of the president. The government denounced the attack as a “cowardly act of desperation” by the militant group al-Shabab, which has claimed responsibility for the assault. While the official death toll has not been provided, witnesses reported seeing multiple fatalities at the scene. Thankfully, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was unharmed during the incident.
Al-Shabab has a longstanding opposition to Somalia’s federal government and consistently executes bombings and assaults against government personnel. This militant group retains control over certain regions in rural Somalia, presenting a significant challenge despite ongoing military actions by both government forces and African Union peacekeepers. The attack occurred shortly after the president departed the palace in a convoy en route to the airport for military operations in Middle Shabelle.
Witness Ayub Osman described witnessing three bodies at the site, while another local resident, Hassan Nur, reported seeing two deceased individuals. The attack underscores the ongoing threat posed by al-Shabab in the region, exacerbated by its frequent targeting of government officials.
The culpability of al-Shabab in this incident was confirmed through a statement released on a website associated with the group, further marking their continued efforts to destabilize the region and undermine the current administration’s authority.
In conclusion, the roadside bombing in Mogadishu represents another violent act by al-Shabab against the Somali government, reflecting the persistence of the militant group’s threat in the region. Despite the president’s safety during this incident, the violence underscores the challenges faced in restoring peace and stability in Somalia, necessitating ongoing military efforts by government and allied forces.
Original Source: www.startribune.com
