Somalia: Twin suicide bombings hit the capital Mogadishu

MOGADISHU, Somalia- Two suicide car explosions were reported in the Somali capital of Mogadishu on Monday, near Aden Adde International Airport and Peace Hotel, Garowe Online reports.

According to witnesses, an explosive-laden vehicle has exploded in front of a security checkpoint at Madina gate near the biggest military base belonging to the African Union Peacekeeping Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

Other sources said another suicide car blast has also targeted Peace Hotel in Mogadishu, causing destruction to the building. The Hotel hosted IGAD extraordinary summit for head of states last September 2016. 

So far 4 people were reported killed, many other wounded and caused huge destruction to nearby buildings and properties.  

Consequently, Al Qaida linked Al Shabaab group have claimed responsibility for the twin attacks, as they previously carried out similar attacks against government officials, security forces and African Union peacekeeping troops in south and central Somalia. 

However, officials from Somali Federal government haven’t released a statement in regards to the blasts.

There have been surge in attacks in the capital Mogadishu in recent weeks, including target killings and suicide bombings amid preparation to hold elections of Parliament Speakers and new Somali President in January 2017.

GAROWEONLINE