Mortar Attacks Near Somali Presidential Palace Kill Two, Wound Five

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Mortar shells struck several districts of Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, on Saturday morning, killing two people, including a 12-year-old girl, and injuring three other civilians, residents and security sources said.

The mortar shells hit neighborhoods in the Hamarweyne, Hamar Jajab, and Shibis districts, close to the presidential palace. Explosions were heard across much of the city.

The reports indicated that the casualties were all civilians caught in the bombardment near their homes. There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

Militant group Al Shabaab, which frequently targets government and security installations, has carried out similar mortar attacks in the area in recent weeks, including strikes near Villa Somalia — the presidential compound — and the Halane camp, which hosts an AU military mission and western embassies, located near Aden Adde International Airport.

Somali federal security authorities have not yet commented on Saturday’s attack, which comes as Al-Shabaab intensified raids against military bases in Middle Shabelle region, which borders the capital. 

GAROWE ONLINE