Thursday October 14, 2021
MOGADISHU (HOL) - Thursday marks four years since a truck loaded with 1200kg bomb drove into afternoon traffic in Mogadishu's Zobe junction killing over 500 and maiming close to 700 others.
The attack, described as the worst terrorist incident in Africa, also destroyed property running into millions of dollars.
The militant group Al-Shabaab which was blamed for the bombing, never claimed responsibility for fear of public blowback. Analysts said the decision not to accept responsibility could probably be because of the massive civilian death toll.
Al-Shabab has justified its war against Somalia's government by saying that it is backed by international countries and protecting western interests. The group has consistently targeted civilian installations - such as hotels, shops, and cafes - which has led to thousands of deaths since the deadly insurgency began over a decade ago.
The US and the UN expressed solidarity with Somalia in separate statements.
"Today, we remember and honour the victims of the horrific October 14 terrorist attack in Mogadishu. The United States reaffirms its commitment to stand with the government and people of Somalia in countering violent extremism and terrorism," the US Embassy in Mogadishu said in a tweet.
The UN in Somalia also said it stands in solidarity with Somalia in marking the fourth anniversary of the deadly bombing.