Tragedy has struck the small Somalian town, Beledweyne, on Saturday, September 23. A vehicle that was packed full of explosives was set off, causing a massive explosion at a security checkpoint, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 people and seriously wounding 40.
According to Ahmed Aden, police officer for the region, five police officers were also killed as they attempted to stop the truck from colliding with the nearby checkpoint.
Witnesses like Halima Nur were left feeling helpless and unable to locate their family members after seeing “all kiosks just rubble” in the aftermath of the bombing.
BREAKING: At least 20 people were killed in a truck bombing at a taxation and security checkpoint in Beledweyne town. The explosion also destroyed nearby residential areas and a gas station pic.twitter.com/dKfU1KEVrk
— Live From Somalia (@Live_F_Somalia) September 23, 2023
The explosion was caused by a truck loaded with explosive devices that passed through a government-manned checkpoint and was chased by a pickup vehicle belonging to security personnel when it exploded.
The interior minister of Hirshabelle state reported that 20 of those injured had been admitted to local hospitals while another 20 were in critical condition requiring airlift transportation to Mogadishu for advanced medical treatment.
This devastating attack follows another triple suicide bombing that occurred earlier this year in Sevare, Mali resulting in nine deaths and over sixty injuries – all civilians.
While these attacks are sure to cause despair amongst Somali citizens, there is still hope for unity amongst them during this difficult time. People are coming together more than ever before and working towards healing their communities despite increasing violence against civilians across Somalia due to political instability and lack of governmental authority.
There have even been reports of people offering shelter or financial aid if assistance is needed following such violent events – showing how strong Somali citizens truly are even amidst tragedy.
It is now more important than ever for national leaders across Africa to come together and take action against these horrific acts which have become increasingly common throughout African countries all plagued by civil unrest due largely to weak or non existent governments struggling with poverty levels higher than most other nations worldwide.
