A roadside bomb explosion struck the Buundo-weyne neighborhood of Beledweyne on Tuesday morning, killing a local businessman and injuring another civilian, according to residents and local sources.
The blast occurred near the Cabdi Coon area, a busy part of the city where residents and traders regularly travel for business and daily activities.
Witnesses said the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) or another explosive object that had been buried in the ground before detonating.
The victim was identified as Abdi Mohamed Farey Cabdi-Xinji, a well-known businessman in Beledweyne.
Local reports said he died at the scene from injuries sustained in the explosion, while another man was wounded and taken for medical treatment.
The incident has shocked residents and business owners in Buundo-weyne, many of whom fear that renewed use of roadside explosives could further threaten public safety and disrupt economic activity in the city.
Security forces quickly arrived at the scene and launched preliminary investigations.
Authorities are expected to examine the blast site to determine the type of explosive used, how it was planted, and whether additional explosive devices may be present in nearby areas.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and officials have not yet identified those behind the explosion.
Investigators are also working to establish when the device was placed and whether the victims were specifically targeted or were caught in an indiscriminate attack.
The death of Abdi-Hinji has sparked an outpouring of grief across Beledweyne, with residents offering condolences to his family, friends and business associates.
Community members described him as a respected businessman whose loss will be deeply felt throughout the city.
Residents say the latest explosion has revived concerns about security in the Cabdi Coon area, where similar incidents have reportedly occurred in the past.
The recurrence of such attacks has prompted calls for increased security patrols, more thorough explosive-detection operations and stronger protection for civilians.
Local community leaders are urging authorities to conduct comprehensive searches of roads and public areas frequently used by residents, warning that buried explosives pose a serious threat to civilians who may be unaware of the danger beneath them.
Beledweyne, the capital of Hiiraan region, has faced a range of security challenges in recent years, including bomb attacks and militant activity.
Roadside explosives remain particularly dangerous because they are often difficult for ordinary citizens to detect and can be triggered without warning.
Security experts note that such attacks not only cause casualties but can also undermine public confidence, restrict movement and negatively affect local commerce as people become increasingly fearful of traveling through affected areas.
As investigations continue, residents are calling on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and clearance operations while encouraging the public to report any suspicious objects or activities that could help prevent future attacks.