Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdelh
Published on 2024-03-15 20:41:36
Security forces in Somalia have successfully neutralized all five attackers who launched an assault on the SYL Hotel in Mogadishu, a usually secure area near the presidential palace. The attack resulted in the deaths of three soldiers and injuries to 27 individuals, according to police spokesperson Kasim Roble.
The Somali extremist group al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the siege on the hotel, which is known to be frequented by government officials. Through a statement on Telegram, al-Shabab fighters boasted about their ability to breach the hotel’s security measures.
Roble confirmed that the situation at the hotel is now under control and that normalcy has been restored. Journalists were not permitted to access the premises following the conclusion of the siege.
While recent security enhancements had led to a decrease in attacks in Mogadishu, al-Shabab remains a potent threat to Somalia’s stability. The group has a history of orchestrating deadly assaults on hotels and other public places, with the most recent major attack occurring in October 2022, resulting in the deaths of over 120 civilians in twin car bombings at a busy intersection.
The Somali government has intensified its efforts to eradicate al-Shabab, with the backing of the United States, which has labeled the group as one of al-Qaida’s most lethal affiliates. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed to wage a comprehensive campaign against the extremists, who hold sway over significant portions of central and southern Somalia and have been the target of numerous U.S. airstrikes in recent years.
As Somalia continues to combat the menace of al-Shabab, the incident at the SYL Hotel serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats faced by the country. The resilience and resolve of the security forces in swiftly neutralizing the attackers highlight the ongoing efforts to safeguard Mogadishu and its residents from extremist violence.
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