Saturday August 3, 2024
An ambulance arrives at the scene of the Liido Beach attack in Mogadishu, where over 30 people were killed and more than 60 injured. The attack, claimed by the militant group Al-Shabaab, has prompted widespread condemnation and calls for increased security measures.
Hargeisa (HOL) — The breakaway Somaliland government condemned an attack on Liido Beach in Mogadishu that left over 30 people dead and more than 60 injured on Friday night. The Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the assault, which involved a suicide bombing and gunfire.
In a statement of condolence and condemnation issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "We are deeply saddened and shocked by the merciless terrorist attack on Liido Beach, which claimed the lives of many innocent civilians, mostly young people," the ministry's statement said.
"We share the grief of all the affected families during this difficult time," the statement added.
The assault began late Friday near a popular beach restaurant and hotel. Police confirmed that three attackers were killed in a gunfight with law enforcement, one blew himself up, and one was captured alive. Among the dead was one soldier, with the rest of the casualties being civilians.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and other leaders condemned the attack and reiterated the government's commitment to eradicating Al-Shabaab. "The government is determined to eliminate this bloody group," Mohamud stated. Somaliland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep sorrow and shock, extending condolences to the victims' families and emphasizing solidarity during this difficult time.
A witness, Mohamed Jibril, described the chaos: "We heard a loud explosion followed by gunfire. I saw many people lying on the beach asking for help, but no one dared to assist because there was ongoing shooting."
Al-Shabaab, linked to al-Qaida, aims to overthrow the Somali federal government and establish a fundamentalist Islamic state. The group emerged after two decades of turmoil following the overthrow of Somalia's military dictatorship. Despite being pushed back in government counteroffensives since 2022, Al-Shabaab continues to launch significant attacks. Despite efforts by the Somali government and its allies, including the United States and the African Union, to suppress Al-Shabaab, the group's ability to carry out coordinated and deadly assaults remains a significant security challenge.
The attack on Liido Beach is one of the deadliest in Mogadishu in recent times. The beach area has been a frequent target, with a six-hour siege on a beachside hotel in 2023 and several other assaults causing numerous casualties.