Terror attack rocks Somalia: 32 killed, 63 injured

A devastating terrorist attack struck Somalia capital, Mogadishu, on Friday evening, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake.

The attack, carried out by al-Shabab militants, targeted a popular beach hotel in the Lido Beach area, a bustling hub of activity on Friday nights.

According to police spokesperson Maj. Abdifatah Adan Hassan, the attack resulted in the deaths of 32 people, with 63 others injured.

One soldier was killed, and another was wounded in the attack.

Witnesses described a horrific scene, with an explosion followed by gunfire and chaos.

The attack began when an attacker wearing an explosive vest detonated himself near the beach-view hotel, causing widespread destruction and panic.

Witnesses reported seeing many people lying on the ground, with some helping to take the wounded to the hospital.

The Lido Beach area has been targeted by al-Shabab militants in the past, with a similar attack last year killing nine people.

The group, affiliated with al-Qaida, continues to wreak havoc in Somalia, carrying out attacks in Mogadishu and other areas while extorting millions of dollars from residents and businesses.

The attack comes as Somalia begins to take charge of its own security, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declaring a “total war” on the militants last year.

The African Union Transition Mission has also started the third phase of its drawdown of peacekeeping troops.

The international community has condemned the attack, with many calling for increased support for Somalia’s efforts to combat terrorism.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook