Al Shabaab Attacks President Mohamud’s Convoy; He Remains Safe

Al Shabaab militants targeted Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in a bomb attack on his convoy in Mogadishu, but he was unharmed. The attack, which occurred as his motorcade was departing the presidential palace, resulted in four fatalities. This marks the first direct assault on the president since 2014. State media later reported that he was later seen in an active combat zone against the militants.

On Tuesday, Al Shabaab militants attempted to attack Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in a bomb assault on his motorcade in Mogadishu. The Islamist group claimed responsibility for the attack, which was reported to have occurred as the president’s convoy was departing from the presidential palace. Fortunately, Mohamud was unharmed, as confirmed by two senior government and military officials. Presidential adviser Zakariye Hussein later assured the public through a social media post that the president was “good and well on his way to the front lines.”
Witnesses, including soldiers and local residents, verified that the convoy was struck during the assault, where four individuals were confirmed dead. Al Shabaab declared their intention, stating, “Our fighters targeted a convoy of vehicles carrying Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as they were leaving the presidential palace and heading to the airport.” This incident marks the first direct attack on Mohamud since 2014, when militants targeted a hotel where he was speaking during his previous term.
Following the attack, state media broadcast images of President Mohamud in the Adan Yabal district of the Middle Shabelle region, demonstrating his commitment to address the ongoing conflict. Government forces have been engaged in combat against an al Shabaab offensive that has persisted for three weeks.

In summary, the attempted bombing of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s motorcade in Mogadishu by Al Shabaab militants underscores the ongoing threats posed by the group in Somalia. Despite the dangers, the president remains active in addressing the conflict within the country. This incident serves as a reminder of the longstanding challenges faced by the Somali government in combating terrorism and ensuring national security.

Original Source: www.usnews.com