Al-Shabab fighters killed as overnight siege of Mogadishu hotel ends
A 13-hour siege at a popular hotel near government buildings in Mogadishu ended with security forces killing the al-Shabab fighters who had seized control.
“All the terrorist gunmen were neutralized, and the situation is now under control,” said police officer Abdirahim Yusuf to the Agence France-Presse news agency. The exact number of al-Shabab fighters killed was not disclosed.
The attack on the SYL Hotel, frequented by government officials, showcased al-Shabab's ongoing capacity to strike despite efforts by the federal government, local militias, and international allies, including the AU and US airstrikes.
A suicide bomber also detonated a car bomb during the assault, claiming at least five lives.
Police spokesman Qasim Ahmed Roble confirmed the casualties, stating, “One terrorist, three hotel security officers, and two members of the security services were killed in the attack.”
Omar Mahmood of the International Crisis Group described the attack as "highly significant," highlighting al-Shabab's resilience and ability to target government interests.
The SYL Hotel has endured previous attacks despite its location in a high-security zone opposite the presidential palace. Al-Shabab, formed during Somalia’s post-civil war chaos, continues its campaign against the government and AU forces, aiming to impose its interpretation of Islamic law.
Recent years have seen a series of deadly assaults in Mogadishu and neighboring countries, demonstrating al-Shabab's persistent threat to regional stability.
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