Somali Forces End Deadly 24-Hour Hotel Siege by Al-Shabab Militants
In a dramatic showdown in the central Somali city of Beledweyne, Somali security forces have brought an end to a deadly 24-hour siege by al-Shabab militants. The attack, which began with a powerful car bomb explosion, saw gunmen storm the Qahira Hotel, where politicians, security officials, and traditional elders were gathered to discuss plans for a major offensive against the extremist group.
The militants’ assault led to intense gunfire and explosions as they clashed with security forces inside the hotel. After a tense standoff, the Somali forces managed to neutralize the attackers, with some militants detonating themselves and others being killed by police. The mayor of Beledweyne, Omar Osman Calasow, confirmed that at least seven people had been killed, though witnesses feared the death toll could be higher.
The situation unfolded as key figures were meeting to strategize on the next steps in Somalia’s ongoing battle against al-Shabab, who control large parts of the country’s rural areas. Among the casualties were military officers, traditional elders, and soldiers, with the militants claiming to have killed 20 people, including government officials and militia leaders.
The hotel was left in ruins after the fierce exchanges of fire, and while the security forces have rescued most of the attendees, some victims have been flown to Mogadishu for treatment. As Somali forces, alongside African Union peacekeepers, continue their efforts to combat al-Shabab, this deadly siege highlights the ongoing threat the group poses despite military efforts to eliminate them.
While the federal government is investigating the full scale of the attack, President Ali Abdullahi Hussein of Hirshabelle state praised the bravery of the forces who neutralized the militants. “Let us unite to complete the elimination of these brutal extremists,” he said.
This tragic attack is a stark reminder of the volatile security situation in Somalia, but also of the resilience of the country’s security forces as they fight to reclaim control and push back al-Shabab’s influence.
