The suicide attack that shook the town of Beledweyne, in the Hiiraan region of Somalia, has left indelible marks on the minds of the residents. Images posted on social media bear witness to the destruction and chaos caused by this brutal attack.
According to authorities, a truck loaded with explosives was launched against a Somali special forces checkpoint. This attack cost the lives of at least 13 people and left more than 40 injured, mainly innocent civilians. Buildings around the site of the explosion were reduced to rubble, leaving rescue workers searching for survivors buried under the rubble. The region’s governor, Abdulahi Ahmed Malim, said the area was completely destroyed.
Although the attack has not yet been claimed, it comes in a context where the Somali government is leading a large-scale military offensive against the Shebab, affiliated with al-Qaeda. The town of Beledweyne is located in the Hiiraan region, a key region in this government offensive.
Government forces, supported by local clan militias, have managed to liberate some strategic towns, but the Somali army has recently reported significant setbacks in its fight against Shebab. She even asked the UN to postpone the withdrawal of African Union troops, which was planned for the end of the month.
Faced with this situation, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reaffirmed the government’s determination to continue the fight against the Shebab Islamists. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and underlined the government’s commitment to ensuring security and stability in the country.
This attack once again serves as a reminder of the continuing threat posed by terrorist groups in Africa and highlights the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The international community must continue to support the Somali government’s efforts to end the prevailing insecurity in the country.
In conclusion, this tragic attack in Beledweyne is a terrible reminder of the challenges facing the Somali government in its fight against Shebab. It is essential to redouble efforts to strengthen security and stability in the region and support the Somali authorities in their actions against terrorism.