At least 37 people have been killed and more than 200 injured in a suicide bombing and gun attack on the popular Lido Beach in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, police said.
The attack happened on Friday evening, when the city’s residents usually gather in cafes near the sea.
An organization affiliated with Al Qaeda has claimed responsibility for a horrific terrorist attack in Somalia that resulted in significant loss of life and injuries.
The militant group Al-Shabaab, known for its ties to Al Qaeda, announced through its media channels that it was behind the bombing. The group stated that the attack was part of its ongoing campaign to destabilize the Somali government and impose its strict interpretation of Islamic law.
Local authorities reported that the attack involved a suicide bomber who detonated an explosive device, and that explosion killed at least 37 people and injured over 100 others, many of whom are in critical condition. The blast caused extensive damage to surrounding shops and stalls, leading to chaos and panic among the visitors.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud condemned the attack and vowed to bring those responsible to justice. “This cowardly act of terror will not go unpunished,” President Mohamud said in a televised address. “We will continue our fight against extremism and ensure that those who seek to harm our people are held accountable.”
The international community has also voiced its outrage and solidarity with Somalia. The United Nations, the African Union, and several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have condemned the attack and reiterated their support for Somalia in combating terrorism.
Al-Shabaab has been a persistent threat in Somalia, frequently carrying out bombings, assassinations, and other attacks aimed at undermining the Somali government and its allies. Despite ongoing efforts by Somali and African Union forces to weaken the group, it remains capable of executing high-profile attacks.
The latest bombing underscores the continuing security challenges faced by Somalia and the need for sustained international support to combat terrorism and stabilize the country. As rescue operations and investigations continue, the Somali government has called for increased vigilance and cooperation among its citizens to prevent further attacks.
The attack has left the community in mourning, with families grieving the loss of loved ones and the destruction of livelihoods. The resilience of the Somali people, however, remains evident as they come together to support one another in the aftermath of the tragedy.
