The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia Michael Keating condemned in the strongest possible terms today’s terrorist attack in the vicinity of Mogadishu International Airport that killed at least a dozen people.
Suicide bombers detonated two vehicles laden with explosives near the perimeter of the airport enclave this morning. No United Nations personnel are among the confirmed dead.
“Al-Shabaab have once again carried out a ruthless attack that has claimed the lives of at least a dozen Somalis,” said SRSG Keating. “The overwhelming majority of Somalis have rejected such terrorist tactics and the use of violence to achieve political objectives. This horrific incident is a fresh example of the extremists’ desperate attempts to disrupt political progress. Neither the Somali authorities nor the United Nations will be deterred from moving forward.” Limited franchise elections are due to be held later this year.
“On behalf of the entire UN community in Somalia, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” said SRSG Keating.
