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A devastating car bomb attack in the central Somalia city of Beledweyne has left at least six people dead, including two prominent traditional elders, and several others injured. The explosion, which targeted the Cairo Hotel, has once again highlighted the persistent threat posed by militant groups in the region.
The attack occurred on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, as the Cairo Hotel hosted traditional elders and military officers coordinating efforts against the militant group Al-Shabaab. Witnesses reported that the explosion was followed by intense gunfire as attackers stormed the hotel, engaging in a fierce battle with security forces. Thick plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the site, and the building sustained significant damage.
Local resident Muhsin Abdullahi confirmed the death toll, stating, “Six people, including two well-known traditional elders, were killed in the attack.” Several injured individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, with authorities working to assess the full extent of the casualties.
While no group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda-linked militant organization, is widely suspected. The group has a long history of carrying out bombings and assaults targeting government officials, military personnel, and civilians in Somalia. Despite ongoing military operations by Somali forces and African Union peacekeepers, Al-Shabaab continues to control parts of rural Somalia and remains a significant threat to the region’s stability.
Beledweyne, located approximately 335 kilometers (208 miles) north of the capital Mogadishu, is a strategic location in Somalia’s campaign against Al-Shabaab. The city has been a focal point for military operations aimed at reclaiming territory from the militant group. The attack on the Cairo Hotel underscores the challenges faced by Somali authorities in securing key areas and protecting civilians.
The Somali government has condemned the attack, vowing to intensify efforts to combat terrorism and bring those responsible to justice. In a statement, a government spokesperson said, “This heinous act is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab. We remain committed to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety of our citizens.”
The international community has also expressed concern over the attack, with calls for increased support to Somalia in its fight against extremism. The United Nations and other global organizations have emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of instability and fostering long-term peace in the region.
The attack has left the residents of Beledweyne shaken, with many calling for enhanced security measures to prevent future incidents. Shopkeeper Ali Suleiman, who witnessed the attack, described the chaos that unfolded. “We first heard a huge blast followed by gunfire, then another blast was heard. It was terrifying,” he said.
As Somalia continues to grapple with the threat of terrorism, the focus remains on strengthening its security forces and improving intelligence-sharing mechanisms. The government has pledged to work closely with international partners to address the challenges posed by militant groups and ensure a safer future for its citizens.
The tragic events in Beledweyne serve as a stark reminder of the resilience required to overcome the persistent threat of extremism. While the road ahead is fraught with challenges, Somalia’s determination to achieve peace and stability remains unwavering.