Somali forces ended a 24-hour siege by al-Shabab at a hotel in Beledweyne after intense clashes. The attack, initiated by a car bomb, resulted in several fatalities and injuries, with the mayor reporting seven deaths. Efforts to evacuate victims for treatment are ongoing, while the threat of al-Shabab remains significant despite military campaigns.
Somali security forces successfully concluded a 24-hour siege at the Qahira Hotel in Beledweyne, where Islamist fighters from al-Shabab initiated an attack. This operation commenced with a car bomb explosion and was followed by gunmen breaching hotel security, resulting in fierce clashes between the attackers and the police.
Mayor Omar Osman Calasow confirmed that the attackers were neutralized, with some detonating explosives and others shot by security forces. While the mayor reported seven fatalities, witnesses indicated that the death toll could be higher.
The hotel siege coincided with a meeting of politicians, security officials, and traditional leaders discussing strategies for an offensive against al-Shabab in central Somalia. Ali Mahad, a police officer, remarked that most attendees had been rescued during the incident.
Federal lawmaker Dahir Amin Jesow stated approximately seven gunmen were involved in the hotel attack. The precise number of injuries remains unclear, although efforts are underway to arrange medical flights to Mogadishu for the victims. Eyewitness Ali Suleiman described the scene, stating that parts of the hotel were left in ruins.
Calasow noted that the confrontation resulted in significant destruction, and among the deceased were military officials and traditional elders. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting that they had killed twenty individuals, which included government figures. The federal government is currently investigating these claims.
Ali Abdullahi Hussein, president of Hirshabelle state, commended the security forces for their courage in neutralizing the militants and urged unity against extremist elements. Beledweyne, located about 335 kilometers (208 miles) from Mogadishu, serves as a strategic site in the fight against al-Shabab. Somali forces, supported by African Union peacekeepers, are committed to reducing this ongoing militant threat.
The recent siege at Qahira Hotel in Beledweyne by al-Shabab has resulted in significant casualties and underscores the continued threat posed by extremist groups in the region. The swift response of Somali security forces mitigated further loss of life, though the attack highlighted the ongoing security challenges within Somalia. Moving forward, unity and continued military operations will be essential in combating these militant factions.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
