Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud survived a bomb attack that killed several bodyguards and civilians, including a journalist. The attack, executed by Al-Shabaab, raised alarms about the security situation in Mogadishu. Following the bombing, Somali police shut down Risaala Media and detained several journalists, highlighting ongoing concerns around press freedom. Al-Shabaab has intensified its campaign, threatening to seize Mogadishu as it grows closer to the capital.
On Tuesday, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud survived a bomb attack targeting his convoy in the Ceelgaabta neighborhood of Mogadishu. The attack resulted in the deaths of several bodyguards and civilians, including an online journalist, named Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe, according to the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). The explosive, concealed on the roadside, detonated as the convoy approached a security checkpoint, severely damaging one of the vehicles and causing partial building collapses nearby.
At least ten individuals, including members of the president’s security detail, were confirmed dead following the explosion. The incident occurred while President Mohamud was en route to coordinate efforts against the advancing Al-Shabaab militant group, which has been encroaching upon Mogadishu. Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for this brazen attack, raising alarms regarding the Somali government’s intelligence shortcomings.
In response to the attack, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, confirmed through X that the president remained unharmed and would continue to oversee military operations against Al-Shabaab. The Somali Ministry of Information issued a statement indicating that the president was targeted while traveling to support troops on the frontlines.
The UK Embassy in Mogadishu condemned the bombing, calling it a “cowardly act” and extending condolences to those impacted. The embassy reaffirmed its support for the Somali government in their fight against extremist groups.
In a related development, armed police raided Risaala Media, a prominent radio station, shutting it down and arresting five journalists. Before this incident, 17 journalists covering the attack were detained; their footage was deleted before release. Although Risaala Media resumed broadcasting later, the raid raises concerns about press freedom in Somalia.
The attack came shortly after a U.S. Embassy security alert warned of potential threats in Somalia. Additionally, recent reports indicated that Al-Shabaab had seized a significant cache of weapons following an assault on a Somali army base. The militant group has intensified its operations, vowing to capture Mogadishu before June through coordinated actions extending their influence toward the capital.
In summary, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud narrowly escaped a bomb attack that claimed numerous lives in Mogadishu. The incident highlights the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab, especially as the group gains ground near the capital. Furthermore, the suppression of the media following the attack raises critical concerns regarding press freedoms in the region. The recent escalation of violence underlines the urgent need for strengthened security measures and international support. Overall, the incident reflects the volatile security environment in Somalia as the government continues its efforts to combat militant threats while facing challenges in protecting journalists and maintaining public safety.
Original Source: hornobserver.com
