Al-Shabaab Gunmen Attack Hotel in Central Somalia, Resulting in Casualties
On Tuesday, al-Shabaab gunmen attacked a hotel in Baledweyne, Somalia, killing at least five and injuring five more. The assault targeted a meeting of local elders and government officials, resulting in significant damage and casualties, including two prominent figures. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility, asserting higher fatalities in the attack.
On Tuesday, a hotel in Baledweyne, central Somalia, was attacked by al-Shabaab gunmen, resulting in at least five fatalities and five injuries. Those deceased included two notable local elders, as reported by Dahir Amin Jesow, a member of the Somali parliament. Eyewitness accounts indicated significant damage to the hotel following exchanges of gunfire between government troops and the militants.
The militant group al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the incident, asserting they killed over 10 individuals. Baledweyne, located approximately 335 kilometers north of Mogadishu, is considered a pivotal area in the ongoing fight against al-Shabaab insurgents. Footage taken by VOA Somali Service stringer Hussein Dhagane depicts the aftermath of the assault.
The assault on the hotel in Baledweyne highlights the ongoing threat posed by al-Shabaab in Somalia. The attack resulted in casualties, including respected local leaders, and reflects on the vulnerabilities present in targeted regions. Given Baledweyne’s strategic significance in military operations against the militia, such incidents underscore the challenges facing Somali government security efforts.
Original Source: www.voaafrica.com
