AU condemns the suicde Bombing near Presidential Palace

The Africa Union peacekeeping mission (AMISOM) has condemned Tuesday’s suicide attack near Somali presidential palace, which killed at least 15 people and wounded over thirty.

Francisco Madeira, AU envoy for Somalia said the truck loaded with explosives failed to reach its target after it was obstructed by the Somali  security forces leading to a premature explosion.

“The botched attack was as a result of the studious forces who risked their lives to mitigate another senseless assault,” Madeira said in a statement posted on AMISOM’s Twitter account.

Ambassador Madeira commiserated with families of victims of the attack and wishes those who sustained injuries a quick recovery.

The suicide bomber has detonated an explosives-laden truck near the gate of Somalia’s presidential palace and SYL Hotel which is frequented by government officials and business executives.

Al-Shabaab group claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that militants’ was targeted the SYL hotel which was reportedly hosting security meeting.

The hotel is situated close to the main entrance to the Villa Somalia government complex that includes the presidential palace, ministry buildings and residences.

The January last year attack killed at least five people when a suicide car bomber rammed the hotel gates on the eve of a visit by Turlish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In February this year 14 people were killed when twin blasts were triggered close to the hotel and the neighboring Peace Garden on a busy Friday afternoon.