(12-01-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — A devastating roadside explosion struck a minibus carrying civilians in Somalia on Friday, resulting in the death of at least nine individuals and causing multiple injuries. This tragic incident occurred in the Lower Shabelle region, as confirmed by Ahmed Hussein, a local security officer.
The minibus, en route from Mogadishu to the town of Qoryooley, encountered the landmine blast near Eelwaregow, on the outskirts of Qoryooley. This agricultural town, which plays a strategic role in the region, is situated approximately 119 kilometres (73 miles) from the Somali capital, Mogadishu.
So far, no group has stepped forward to claim responsibility for the attack. However, it’s noteworthy that the al-Qaeda-affiliated terror group al-Shabaab has been responsible for numerous recent attacks in East Africa. Since 2007, al-Shabaab has been actively opposing the Somali government and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), a mission authorized by the African Union and mandated by the United Nations Security Council.
The frequency of such attacks has increased following the declaration of an “all-out war” on al-Shabaab by the Somali president, who secured a second term in office last year. The ongoing violence poses a significant challenge to the stability and security of the region.
Halqabsi News
