Tragic Explosion Rocks Somali Beach: Former PM Reacts

A devastating explosion erupted at Liddo beach in Somalia’s capital, leading to multiple casualties. Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire expressed condolences via social media, condemning the attack’s timing. Somali National Television confirmed the attackers were neutralized and medical teams were attending to the victims. Al Shabaab has a history of similar assaults.

A devastating explosion erupted late Friday evening on a busy beach in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, according to former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire.

Khaire noted that the blast occurred while residents were swimming at Liddo beach, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Although he shared his condolences online, he did not provide specific details regarding the number of casualties or the perpetrators behind the attack.

Khaire condemned the timing of the attack, emphasizing that it targeted a time when the beach was most crowded. Videos posted on social media showed bodies strewn across the beach as people fled for safety.

Somali National Television reported that security forces had neutralized the attackers, and medical personnel were tending to the injured. The Al Qaeda-affiliated group, Al Shabaab, has previously taken responsibility for similar attacks and continues to pose a threat despite being pushed back by government counteroffensives since 2022.

(With inputs from agencies.)