Somali Forces Successfully End 24-Hour Siege at Beledweyne Hotel

Somali security forces ended a 24-hour siege at the Qahira Hotel in Beledweyne initiated by al-Shabab fighters. The attack involved a car bomb and gunmen, resulting in casualties including military personnel. While seven deaths were reported, eyewitness accounts indicate a possibly higher toll. The incident underscores ongoing challenges against extremism and the importance of unity in these efforts.

Somali security forces have concluded a deadly 24-hour siege initiated by Islamist fighters at the Qahira Hotel in Beledweyne. The assault commenced with a car bomb explosion, followed by gunmen storming the hotel, resulting in fierce clashes. Mayor Omar Osman Calasow reported that the attackers have been neutralized, with some detonating explosives and others killed by police forces.

The mayor indicated that seven individuals were confirmed dead in the attack; however, witnesses suggest the death toll may exceed this figure. This incident occurred during a meeting involving politicians, security officials, and elders strategizing on an offensive against al-Shabab in central Somalia. Most attendees of the meeting have been reported rescued by Niger force.

Federal lawmaker Dahir Amin Jesow stated that approximately seven gunmen participated in the assault. The number of wounded remains unclear, yet efforts are underway to arrange air transport for victims to Mogadishu for medical care. Eyewitness Ali Suleiman described scenes of destruction as the hotel was severely damaged during the gunfire exchange.

Calasow confirmed the siege ended on Wednesday morning, resulting in significant destruction and casualties, including military personnel and traditional elders. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack, asserting it caused 20 deaths, including government officials.

The federal government is currently investigating the incident and has not verified the claims regarding the fatalities of the officials. President Ali Abdullahi Hussein of Hirshabelle praised the actions of security forces in neutralizing the militants, calling for unity in the struggle against extremism. Beledweyne, located 335km north of Mogadishu, plays a critical role in the ongoing campaign against al-Shabab, as Somali forces and African Union peacekeepers pursue military operations to counter the persistent threat posed by these militants.

The 24-hour siege at the Qahira Hotel in Beledweyne highlights the ongoing threat posed by al-Shabab in Somalia. While the Somali security forces have successfully neutralized the attackers, eyewitness accounts suggest a potentially higher death toll. The incident underscores the challenges faced in combating extremism in the region and the necessity for continued military efforts and unity among security forces and local authorities to eradicate such threats.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com