Somalia: Twin suicide bombings kill over a dozen in Baidoa [Security roundups]

BAIDOA, Somalia-At least 18 people have been reported killed and 30 others wounded in twin suicide blasts in Bay regional capital of Baidoa of southwestern Somalia after car bomb and suicide bomber ripped through crowds watching football games before dusk prayers, GaroweOnline reports. 

Many wounded succumbed to their injuries according to further details emerging of the deadliest attack in a week in Somalia as of Monday morning.  

On Friday, another bombing left close to a dozen dead near Mogadishu’s SYL hotel which is popular with government officials and foreigners.  

The bombed restaurant and hotel in Baidoa are frequented by politicians and Diaspora members. Somali militant group, Al Shabaab, was quick in claiming responsibility for the twin blasts in Baidoa. 

--Extraordinary cabinet session  

Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who returned to Mogadishu by Sunday, gathered cabinet ministers and top security officials for extraordinary session at the heavily fortified compound of Villa Somalia.  

The meeting focused on security measures in the wake of Al Shabaab attacks in central and southern Somalia.  

Speaking to reporters shortly after the cabinet session, Information Minister Mohamed AbdiHayir(Mareye) said, the emergency meeting agreed the need to protect Somali people from terrorists and fresh offensives aimed at removing militants from areas under their control. 

“It was agreed for national leaders to spearhead fiercer campaign against terrorists. The Somali government will keep special vigil on supporters and financing networks,” he threatened. 

Cabinet listened to briefings by Security Minister, National Intelligence and Security Agency Boss and Police Chief.  

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Francisco Caetano Madeira, has strongly condemned the terror attack in Baidoa. 

“I am saddened by the loss of innocent lives through acts of terror committed by ruthless individuals who have no value for life,” Ambassador Madeira said in a press statement from his office. 

--Kismayo raids   

Al Shabaab gunmen launched a raid on a building housing senior Jubaland official overnight on Sunday in the southern port city of Kismayo.  

The bodyguards of security official returned fire right away, killing three assailants on the spot. Meanwhile, Jubaland security forces foiled terror plots including planting of landmines in important scenes and captured two Al Shabaab operatives.  

A spokesman for Jubaland Intelligence, Ahmed Mohamud Mohamed (Arab), displayed weapons cache uncovered in subsequent operations to media. 

What has been a beleaguered group, has honed terror attacks in central and southern Somalia over the last few weeks.

GAROWEONLINE