Mogadishu, Somalia — Somalia’s Ministry of Defense has confirmed a suicide bombing near the Jaalle Siyaad Military Academy in Mogadishu on Wednesday morning, resulting in multiple casualties.
The explosion occurred in a tea shop adjacent to the military installation, a popular gathering spot for soldiers and civilians alike.
Initial reports indicate several people were killed or wounded in the blast, although the exact number of casualties has yet to be officially released. The attack took place during the morning rush hour, when the area was crowded.
A local witness told reporters, “The explosion was sudden and powerful. We saw smoke rising and people running in panic. The tea shop was destroyed.”
Security forces quickly cordoned off the area, and ambulances were seen rushing the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the perpetrator of the attack and the extent of the damage.
No group has claimed responsibility so far, but Al-Shabaab militants have carried out similar attacks in the capital targeting military and government sites.
The Ministry of Defense expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and stated that security agencies are working to prevent further attacks. Additional updates are expected as more information becomes available.