Details are emerging about a powerful explosion that today occurred in Beledweyne, the capital of the Hiran region in central Somalia. The blast, which was followed by gunfire, took place in the western part of the city. It is reported that the attack targeted a hotel called Qaahira, and the bomb was reportedly placed in a vehicle.
The building that was attacked was believed to be a hub for organizing military operations aimed at intensifying the fight against the terrorist group Al-Shabaab in the area. According to sources, elders and military officers involved in these operations were present at the hotel during the attack.
Shortly after the explosion, members of Al-Shabaab reportedly entered the hotel, initiating a direct assault. Gunfire could still be heard in the area, as the situation remains fluid with ongoing combat inside the building.
Although details on casualties are unclear, the conflict is still ongoing, with security forces engaged in heavy operations in the vicinity of the hotel located in the Howlwadaag neighborhood.
As of now, there has been no official statement from regional authorities or security officials regarding the explosion and subsequent attack.
This assault comes amid intensive operations in both Hiran and Middle Shabelle regions against Al-Shabaab militants, who have reportedly re-entered areas previously liberated from their control, part of the Hirshabelle administration.
