Monday March 18, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre
chaired a security meeting regarding the country's security situation,
particularly focusing on military operations and ensuring the safety of the
capital following the deadly al-Shabab attack on a hotel near the presidential
palace in Mogadishu.
Attending Sunday's meeting in Mogadishu were the Minister of
Defence, the Acting Minister of Internal Security, commanders of the military, police,
and intelligence, the Attorney General, the Governor of Banadir Region and the
Mayor of Mogadishu.
The army commander provided a brief report on the country's
security during the holy month of Ramadan, ongoing military operations, and the
recent al-Shabab attack on the SYL hotel.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of security
agencies being more vigilant and ensuring the safety of the nation, remaining
alert to al-Shabab attacks aimed at endangering the Somali people's safety.
He also underscored the significance of eradicating the
Al-Shabaab terrorists and enhancing cooperation between the army and the
civilian population.
Three government soldiers were killed, and 27 others,
including 18 civilians and three lawmakers, were wounded in the hours-long
siege at the SYL Hotel, which is popular among government officials.
On Sunday, at least 18 of the most severely wounded people
from Thursday's al-Shabab attack on the SYL hotel in Mogadishu were airlifted
to Turkey for treatment.