Explosive Bomb Attack On UN Vehicle Kills 9 In Garowe, Somalia
At least 9 mostly UN local and international staff were killed and many others were wounded after a car bomb explosion occurred in Garowe, Somalia. The attack happened when they were traveling from their guest houses to the office, normally a three minute-drive.
UN staff and other colleagues were riding the vehicle when the bomb was detonated and police that came to the scene said they believe the bomb was planted under a seat and was then exploded by remote control.
Witnesses said more than nine were killed but this has not been confirmed yet.
No one has yet claimed responsibility for this attack but local authorities say that armed group of Alshabaab could be the likely enemy behind the deadly bombing.
Somali president, African Union, as well as US special representative have all condemned the attack.
The Somali president made a statement from Aqaba, Jordan, where he and other members of the Federal Government were attending a conference on eradicating terrorism in East Africa when the incident happened.
“I am horrified at this brutal attack targeting the United Nations. I send my deepest sympathies to the families of those who were killed or injured this morning. Those involved will be in my prayers – remembered for their faithful work in support of a peaceful and prosperous Somalia,” the president said.
The head of AMISOM, Ambassador Sidikou condemning the deadly attack in part said that Al-Shabaab is targeting the lives of unarmed humanitarian workers performing their duty helping the people of Somalia and that such an attack amounted to a crime against humanity.
US representative James P. McAnulty has condemned the action in a press statement released later in the day saying that the attack in Puntland was, indeed, an assault not only on United Nations staff but on the people whom they courageously and selflessly served.
The representative added that the senseless attack demonstrates what Al-shabaab has proven, – that it stands only for murder, hatred, and destruction.
Al-Shabaab’s total disregard for human life continues to anger and appall the people of Somalia and the international community.
