(27-09-23) BELEDWEYNE — A Somali policeman has been arrested in connection with a suicide bombing in the city of Beledweyne that killed 20 and injured 45, according to authorities. The Al-Shabaab militant group claimed responsibility for the 23 September attack, which has prompted increased scrutiny of security measures.
Ahmed Ali Adan, Beledweyne District Police Commander, told reporters on Wednesday that officials suspect Al-Shabaab facilitated the attack. “Additional measures are being undertaken,” said Adan, who expressed concerns over what he described as “security negligence.”
The Somali government has airlifted 20 of the injured civilians to the capital, Mogadishu, for medical treatment, in a move that highlights the severity of the situation. Those not airlifted are receiving medical care locally.
Beledweyne has been previously targeted by Al-Shabaab, but the recent attack marks a heightened level of violence. The city has become the second-most frequent target for bombings after Mogadishu, despite being a focal point for anti-Al-Shabaab operations. Government and local forces are permanently stationed in the city.
“Arrest warrants have been issued for other individuals,” said Adan, stressing that investigations are ongoing to apprehend all involved. Officials aim to examine the apparent security failures that enabled the vehicle to reach its detonation point without interception.
Halqabsi News
