Armed militants from Al-Shabab have stormed the Qahira Hotel in Beledweyne, a city located in central Somalia, triggering an intense standoff with security forces. The assault commenced with a significant car bomb explosion, followed by gunmen entering the facility, resulting in heavy firefights. Official reports indicated that four individuals were killed, whereas eyewitnesses reported that the number has surged to ten as the security forces continue to combat the attackers.
This attack coincided with a meeting of politicians, security officials, and traditional elders who were strategizing on an offensive aimed at dismantling the Al-Shabab insurgency in central Somalia. Located approximately 335 kilometers (208 miles) from the capital, Mogadishu, Beledweyne holds a strategic significance for operations against the group.
Police officer Ali Mahad stated that many individuals inside the hotel have been rescued, yet the ordeal is far from over. "Security forces are tackling several gunmen who are cornered in one part of the building," he remarked. Dahir Amin Jesow, a federal lawmaker, indicated that about seven gunmen have taken refuge in the hotel.
Eyewitness accounts depict harrowing scenes, with one shopkeeper, Ali Suleiman, recalling the moment of the blast and subsequent gunfire: "We first heard a huge blast followed by gunfire, then another blast was heard." The extent of the injuries remains unclear, but efforts are underway to evacuate victims to Mogadishu for medical treatment. The continued exchanges of fire have left parts of the hotel in ruins.
