MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – A devastating explosion involving a explosives-laden vehicle near the presidential palace in Mogadishu has resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries on Saturday mid day.
Initial reports indicate that five people have died, while at least eight others are injured.
The police came and cordoned off the area as terrified residents looking for loved ones scrambled to the scene.
The explosion occurred today in front of the Geel-doox restaurant, located near the national theatre within the vicinity of Villa Somalia.
The vehicle, identified as a Toyota Surf, was loaded with explosives and detonated during a busy lunchtime, leading to civilian casualties.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with a large crowd present at the restaurant when the blast occurred.
The impact shattered windows in nearby buildings, including the Hooyooyinka Building housing several offices, underscoring the explosion’s severity.
The explosion took place in an area surrounded by checkpoints manned by presidential security forces, which also houses several government facilities, including ministries and offices.