MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – A lone suicide bomber unleashed an explosion at a gathering place for new soldiers killing at least 15 recruits and left more than 30 others injured, according to witnesses.
Eyewitnesses, speaking to Kaab TV, recounted the horrifying scene as the recruits, primarily from the Lower Shabelle region, were queuing when the suicide bomber struck.
The recruits included members of the 14 October soldiers, a paramilitary force established during President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo’s term.
BREAKING: Ugu yaraan 15 ruux oo u badan dhallinyaro loo qorayey askar oo laga keenay gobolka Shabeellaha Hoose ayaa ku dhintay qarax ka dhacay Muqdisho.
Qaraxa oo uu geystay nin bambo isku soo xiray oo dhex galay goob askarta lagu ururinayey agagaarka xarunta Wasaaradda…
— Kaab Somali TV (@KaabTV) July 24, 2023
The attack has caused considerable confusion and distress at the scene, and as of now, there is no official statement from the Somali Armed Forces Command.
Officials from the Ministry of Defence have declined to comment on the tragic incident.
Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the Monday attack. According to their statement, one of their members targeted a soldier in the queue, causing significant casualties.
The attack is part of a surge in bombings and terror attacks orchestrated by Al-Shabaab over the weekend.
On Saturday, a bomb explosion in Jowhar town’s animal market claimed the life of a Jowhar district official and injured five others, including soldiers and civilians.
On Sunday, former Hirshabelle minister of agriculture, Hassan Ahmed Muudeey, was shot dead by gunmen in Mogadishu’s Yaqshid district.
The ongoing series of attacks has sent shockwaves through the country, prompting authorities to remain on high alert.