According the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) on Thursday, there was an explosion in Mogadishu’s seaport by two suicide bombers. Three AMISOM soldiers were injured and one civilian was killed in the blast.
Major Paddy Ankunda, AMISOM spokesman, commented on the attack, saying:
“This is a callous attack on the civilian population designed to frighten them and disrupt the flow of trade. Al-Shabaab know their time in Bakara is coming to an end and they are trying to bring trade to its knees as they go.
“The men blended in with the constant flow of civilian traders entering and leaving the port. The Port is Mogadishu’s commercial lifeline and AMISOM offer the best protection possible whilst allowing trade to flow freely.
“Our security picked up the threat quickly and dealt with it effectively, preventing the men from reaching the dockside and causing extensive injuries to workers unloading ships.
“AMISOM will not be intimidated and will continue to provide the best security we can. The people of Mogadishu can be reassured that we will keep the port open and businesses trading wherever possible.
“Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased, and with the injured.”
Al-Shabaab has since taken responsibility for the disruptive attack.