Brussels 03.08.2024 “The European Union strongly condemns last night’s terrorist attack in Mogadishu, claimed by Al Shabaab. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish speedy recovery to those injured” reads the statement by the European External Action service spokesperson on the terrorist attack in Mogadishu, Somalia. (Picture above: illustration)

“This brutal attack at Lido Beach against civilians underlines yet again Al Shabaab’s barbarity towards their own compatriots”.

“The EU stands in solidarity with the Government of Somalia and the Somali people and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism in all its forms”.

Somalia authorities informed that 32 people died and 63 others were wounded in an attack on a beach hotel in the capital Mogadishu, on August 2. Police spokesperson Maj. Abdifatah Adan Hassan, added that one soldier was killed in the attack among civilians.
“Another soldier was also wounded in the attack. Witnesses reported an explosion followed by gunfire,” Mr. Hassan said.

Al-Shabab, Al-Qaida’s East Africa affiliate, claimed the responsibility fighters for the attack. Lido Beach, a popular area in Mogadishu, is full of people on weekends.

A witness Mohamud Moalim told The Associated Press (AP) that he saw an attacker wearing an explosive vest moments before the man “blew himself up next to the beach-view hotel.” He said some of his friends who were with him at the hotel were killed and others were wounded.

Another witness, Abdisalam Adam, told AP that he “saw many people lying on the ground” and had helped take some wounded people to the hospital.

The Lido Beach area has in the past been targeted by militants allied to al-Shabab. The most recent attack last year killed nine people.