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Panic as IED explodes in Mogadishu's Bakaara market

The blast at a market in Mogadishu

By Hassan Mohamed | Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Property of unknown value was also destroyed.

The Somalia government has said the explosions that engulfed the Bakaara market in Mogadishu were a result of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

Deputy Mayor of Mogadishu in Charge of Political and Security Mohamed Ahmed Diiriye alias Yabooh said on Tuesday the IED was planted by Al-Shabaab, dismissing reports that the explosion was caused by mortars as reported by the media.

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Yabooh said the explosion damaged property and resulted in casualties. However, he did not reveal the number of casualties.

“No mortars were fired into this market. They were IEDs planted here by Al-Shabaab. Investigations are ongoing. Security agencies will share official updates later,” he said.

He reassured the public of the government's support and condemned the attack.

“The attack here confirms the terrorists have no regard for life. We all know this,” he said.

He confirmed medical evacuations were ongoing but did not give figures for the injured. Ambulances were seen rushing to the scene as security was tightened.

Earlier, witnesses had said they saw several injured civilians after the explosions went off.

“I saw six injured people being carried. I am sure there were deaths because the place was packed with shoppers and business people. This is the work of Al-Shabaab, no one else indiscriminately kills civilians like this other than Al-Shabaab,” Aballah Feisal, an eye witness told Eastleigh Voice moments after the explosions rocked Mogadishu.

Another witness said he heard several explosions around the market.

“I heard around 4 loud bangs. People started running away and I heard some of the injured crying for help and others were helping them. It was really scary and horrible. I ran for my life. I am still shocked,” said resident Abdullahi Abdi who was shopping in Bakaara when the attack happened.