On March 11, 2025, an attack by Al Shabaab gunmen on a hotel in central Somalia resulted in casualties and a continued siege. Government forces engaged in combat with militants as witnesses described the chaos. The hotel meeting was focused on countering Al Shabaab’s influence in the region.
On March 11, 2025, gunmen attacked a hotel in central Somalia, where local elders and government officials were convening. The assault resulted in a siege that prompted immediate action from government forces, as reported by witnesses and relatives. Dahir Amin Jesow, a federal lawmaker from Beledweyne, confirmed that at least four individuals had lost their lives during the attack.
The militant group Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for this incident, asserting that they had killed over ten people. The meeting aimed to devise strategies to combat Al Shabaab in the Hiraan region, as noted by Abdullahi Fidow, a clan elder. He mentioned that he intended to attend the meeting but was delayed by family obligations, indicating the timing of the blasts was unfortunate.
Witnesses shared their experiences of the chaotic scene, describing how they first heard a significant explosion followed by immediate gunfire. Ali Suleiman, a local shopkeeper, noted the destruction at the Qahira Hotel during the ensuing gunfire between government troops and the assailants.
Halima Nur, a nearby resident, recounted that intermittent gunfire persisted throughout the siege, illustrating the ongoing danger faced by those involved. Overall, the attack reflects the persistent threat posed by Al Shabaab, which frequently carries out violent attacks in its pursuit to overthrow the government and impose strict Islamic law.
The recent attack on the hotel in central Somalia highlights the ongoing threat posed by Al Shabaab, demonstrated by their claim of responsibility and the resulting casualties. The attack underscores the challenges faced by local authorities and communities as they attempt to formulate strategies to counteract militant activities. Witness accounts reveal the chaotic nature of the incident, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced security measures as violence in the region continues.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
