Conflicting reports emerge after explosions rock Mogadishu

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Sunday September 8, 2024

Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali Police have denied reports of mortar attacks in Mogadishu despite multiple explosions shaking the city on Saturday evening. Eyewitnesses dispute official statements attributing the blasts to non-militant activity, raising concerns over the accuracy of the government's response.

Police claimed the loud explosions heard in some neighbourhoods were caused by large plastic bags placed in different locations. "We inform the residents of Mogadishu that the sounds they heard were from plastic bags, and no casualties have been reported," the police stated. Minor damage to tin-roofed homes was acknowledged, but no loss of life or injuries were reported.

However, local journalists visiting one of the impacted areas provided a starkly different account. In one incident, a mortar reportedly struck the home of a family while their four children were sleeping. The eldest daughter sustained minor injuries, creating a significant discrepancy between the government's denial and what witnesses have observed on the ground.

Late on Saturday, multiple explosions were reported across Mogadishu. Local sources indicated the blasts may have been caused by mortar fire, although no group has claimed responsibility. As authorities respond to the escalating situation, heightened security measures are expected in the affected areas.

These latest incidents come just days after a confirmed mortar attack on Sept. 5 in the Wadajir district, near Halane Camp and Aden Adde International Airport, which left two civilians injured.

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