Somalia arrests Al-Shabaab suspects over SYL Hotel attack

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA) has arrested individuals behind the SYL Hotel attack in Mogadishu, in the latest crackdown spearheaded by security sleuths in Somalia, targeting Al-Shabaab militants.

In a statement on Saturday, NISA said 16 individuals linked to the attack have been arrested pending interrogations and prosecution. They are believed to have played a key role in organizing and executing the raid which left over six people dead.

"NISA apprehended 16 suspects, including mastermind Abdinasir Dahir Nur, for their involvement. 4 suspected vehicle owners and 5 security personnel from checkpoints are under investigation," state media noted in a statement.

"The security forces vows to deliver full evidence and bring them before the justice," added the statement, with security teams promising to bring all culprits into the full force of the law through prosecution in the court.

At least four people were killed in the attack which was carried out by al-Shabaab militants, and more than 40 others were injured. Those injured have since been airlifted to Ankara, Turkey for advanced treatment and were seen off by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

The Al-Shabab militants claimed responsibility for the attack, noting that the lead commander comes from Kismayo, Jubaland. At least five attackers were killed after a 13-hour siege which was ended by the Special Forces from the Somali National Army.

Somalia is fighting Al-Shabaab and other extremist groups who have been wreaking havoc in the country. The extremists have been defeated in several frontlines including in central and southern regions where the government is coordinating operations against them.

GAROWE ONLINE