Al-Shabaab gunmen attacked a hotel in Baledweyne, Somalia, killing at least five and injuring five others. Two prominent elders were among those killed. The group claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting a higher death toll. Baledweyne’s strategic significance in the fight against al-Shabaab adds to concerns over security in the area.
On a tragic Tuesday in central Somalia, al-Shabaab gunmen stormed a hotel in Baledweyne, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals and injuring five others. Among the deceased were two notable local elders, as reported by Dahir Amin Jesow, a member of the Somali Parliament, to Voice of America (VOA). The confrontation led to extensive damage, with parts of the hotel reduced to rubble amidst an exchange of fire between government troops and the attackers.
The militant group al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the assault, asserting that it resulted in more than ten fatalities. Baledweyne, situated approximately 335 kilometers north of Mogadishu, holds significant strategic importance in the ongoing fight against al-Shabaab, highlighting the persistent security challenges in the region.
The recent attack on the Baledweyne hotel underscores the ongoing threat posed by al-Shabaab in Somalia and the tragic loss of life among community leaders. With strategic locations such as Baledweyne being targetted, it highlights the urgent need for increased security measures to protect civilians and government officials from such violent assaults.
Original Source: www.voaafrica.com
