Somali security forces ended a 24-hour siege by al-Shabab at the Cairo Hotel in Beledwyne, killing all militants. The siege began with a car bomb, resulting in an unknown number of civilian casualties. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility, highlighting the group’s continued threat in Somalia despite military challenges.
Somali security forces have successfully concluded a 24-hour siege initiated by al-Shabab militants at the Cairo Hotel in Beledwyne, resulting in the deaths of all assailants involved in the attack. On Wednesday, local officials confirmed the end of the siege, but the number of civilian casualties remains uncertain.
The siege commenced with a car bomb explosion on Tuesday, specifically targeting the Cairo Hotel, which accommodates traditional elders and military officers linked to the government’s efforts against al-Shabab. Mayor Omar Alasow announced the successful termination of the siege, confirming that six militants were killed; however, the civilian death toll is still under investigation.
Al-Shabab, an affiliate of al-Qaida, has claimed responsibility for this attack. Beledwyne, located approximately 335 kilometers north of Mogadishu, serves as the capital of the Hiran region and represents a crucial site in the ongoing military campaign against the militant group. Meanwhile, local residents report conflicting casualty figures from this tragic event.
The aftermath of the attack has resulted in visible destruction, as footage on social media reveals heavy smoke rising from the devastated hotel. Al-Shabab routinely executes bombings and assaults targeting government officials and military personnel throughout Somalia, maintaining control over certain rural areas despite military pressure from government forces and African Union peacekeepers.
In summary, the confrontation at the Cairo Hotel in Beledwyne highlights the ongoing struggle against al-Shabab in Somalia. Although Somali security forces effectively neutralized the militants involved, the incident underscores the tragic loss of civilian lives and the persistent threat posed by the group. This event serves as a reminder of the complex security landscape in the region.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
