UN, IGAD condemn deadly Al-Shabaab attack on Mogadishu beach

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Sunday August 4, 2024

UNSOM Photo A file photo of the Liido Beach in the Mogadishu. The beach is popular among Somalis to spend time with family and friends.

Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Nations has condemned a deadly suicide attack at Mogadishu's Liido Beach, which killed at least 37 people and injured more than 200 late Friday night. The terrorist group Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack, which began with a suicide bombing and escalated into a gun battle between militants and security forces.

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"The Secretary-General is saddened that the people of Somalia continue to be victims of such heinous acts of terrorism," stated Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, in a release on Saturday. "He reiterates that the United Nations stands firmly with the Government and people of Somalia against terrorism and violent extremism."

Liido Beach, one of the most popular spots for locals to gather with family and friends, was the scene of the horrific attack. James Swan, Acting Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, emphasized the community's loss. "Liido Beach is a popular place for Somalis to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the beauty of the Somali coastline. Targeting this location is an abhorrent act that warrants the firmest condemnation," Swan stated. "As we join all peace-loving Somalis in mourning this sad loss, I reaffirm the United Nations' support for and solidarity with the Federal Government of Somalia in its efforts to ensure peace, security, and stability in the country."

Friday's attack is one of the deadliest in Somalia since the October 2022 bombings in Mogadishu, which killed over 120 people and injured more than 300. The scale of this latest assault underscores the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab, which continues its violent insurgency against the Somali government.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) also strongly condemned the heinous attack at the public beach.

The Executive Secretary of IGAD, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to those injured. "We denounce this barbaric act of terror in the strongest terms. Such cowardly attacks will not undermine the resolve of the Somali government, its resilient people, or the region at large. Instead, it will strengthen our collective determination to rebuild Somalia and eliminate the scourge of terrorism," Dr. Workneh stated.

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