Car Bomb Explodes in Mogadishu, Killing Five, Injuring 20 During Euro 2024 Final
A devastating car bomb exploded outside a restaurant in Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, on Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of five people and injuring 20 others.
Reuters reports that the incident occurred while patrons were engrossed in the Euro 2024 football tournament final on television. Somali police have attributed the attack to Islamist insurgents.
The powerful blast not only claimed lives but also wreaked havoc on property.
According to reports, the explosion destroyed ten cars and caused extensive damage to several nearby buildings.
The attack took place in a heavily guarded area close to the Presidential Palace, heightening security concerns in the region.
The militant group Al Shabaab, known for its long-standing insurgency in Somalia, claimed responsibility for the bombing.
Through an affiliated radio station, Al Shabaab stated that the attack was aimed at a location frequented by security and government personnel during the night.
Al Shabaab, which once held control over significant parts of Somalia, has been engaged in a prolonged conflict to impose a strict interpretation of Islamic law across the country.
Despite losing considerable territory to government forces and their allies, the group has maintained its capability to launch raids and deadly attacks, particularly targeting Mogadishu and other areas under federal government control over the past two years.
This latest attack underscores the persistent threat posed by Al Shabaab militants in Somalia, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by the nation as it strives for stability and peace.
