Gunmen stormed the Qahira Hotel in Baladweyne, Somalia, on March 11, 2025, and are holding a siege while exchanging gunfire with government troops. The militant group Al Shabaab claimed responsibility, with reports of multiple fatalities including at least four confirmed deaths. Witnesses described explosions and fierce gunfire during the attack.
On March 11, 2025, gunmen attacked the Qahira Hotel in Baladweyne, Somalia, where local leaders and government officials were convening. Eyewitnesses reported that a siege was underway, resulting in significant casualties, with initial reports indicating at least four fatalities, according to federal lawmaker Dahir Amin Jesow.
The militant group Al Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the assault, asserting that they have killed over ten individuals. This group frequently engages in violent actions, seeking to overthrow the government in favor of implementing their strict interpretation of Islamic Sharia law across Somalia, a nation already plagued by instability.
Witnesses described the event as chaotic, with one shopkeeper, Ali Suleiman, stating, “We first heard a huge blast followed by gunfire, then another blast was heard.” Destruction was visible, as parts of the hotel were heavily damaged amidst ongoing exchanges of gunfire between government forces and the attackers. Another witness, Halima Nur, reported hearing sporadic gunfire as the siege continued.
The ongoing siege at the Qahira Hotel in Baladweyne underscores the persistent threat posed by Al Shabaab in Somalia, as they continue to target government officials and local leaders. The violence reflects the broader instability in the region exacerbated by extremist ideologies, highlighting the urgent need for effective security measures to protect civilians and government functions.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
