Al-Shabab Gunmen Assault Hotel in Beledweyne, Somalia, During Official Meeting

Al-Shabab gunmen attacked the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne, Somalia, during a meeting between officials and tribal elders, claiming to have killed over 10 persons. Witness accounts and varying reports suggest a lower death toll. The group, linked to al-Qaeda, has targeted the Somali government for over 16 years, posing a significant security threat despite military efforts.

Al-Shabab gunmen have overtaken a hotel in Beledweyne, Somalia, resulting in multiple fatalities during a meeting between government officials and tribal elders aimed at discussing strategies against the group. The Cairo Hotel was specifically targeted on Tuesday, an incident claimed by Al-Shabab which reported a death toll exceeding ten.

The assault began with the detonation of a car bomb, followed by armed entry into the hotel, leading to an intense firefight with Somali security forces that lingered into the afternoon. Eyewitness Ali Suleiman described the chaos, noting that he heard a significant explosion followed by gunfire and confirmed that part of the hotel was devastated.

There are inconsistencies regarding the number of casualties. Al-Shabab’s official statement mentioned over ten fatalities, while reports from local authorities indicate at least four deaths. A resident cited by the Associated Press reported six deaths, including two respected traditional elders.

Al-Shabab emerged from the anarchy of Somalia’s civil war beginning in 1991 and has aligned itself with al-Qaeda. For over 16 years, it has actively pursued the overthrow of the Somali government to enforce its rigid interpretation of Islamic law, often resulting in frequent attacks on government and military personnel, jeopardizing civilian safety. Despite military efforts by the Somali government and the African Union peacekeeping force, Al-Shabab continues to control territories in rural Somalia and poses a persistent threat to national security.

The siege of the Cairo Hotel in Beledweyne by Al-Shabab underscores the continuing threat posed by the group to Somali stability amidst efforts to counteract its influence. The attack not only resulted in multiple casualties but also highlighted the inconsistency in reporting on the event’s impact. Al-Shabab’s enduring presence and violent tactics reveal the ongoing challenges the Somali government faces in restoring peace and security.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com