Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Explosions, Gunfire Near Mogadishu Mayor's Office

by Ahmed Mohamed

   Mogadishu --

   A series of bombs went off near the Mogadishu city headquarters Sunday
   afternoon, followed by gunfire. The militant group al-Shabab claims its
   fighters have entered the mayor's office in downtown Mogadishu.

   Witnesses in Somalia's capital say at least four bombs went off near
   the Mogadishu mayor's office Sunday afternoon.

   People in the area say that a vehicle loaded with explosives blew up
   near the city administration's headquarters. The explosion was followed
   by heavy gunfire.

   There were no immediate reports on casualties and government officials
   have not commented on the incident.

   Gunfire can still be heard in the area amid unconfirmed reports that
   the militants may have entered the building.

   The militant group al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack
   and said through its affiliated news website that its fighters had
   entered the mayor's office.

   Today's attack is the second one targeting the city administration
   headquarters. In July 2019 a suicide bomber blew herself up during a
   staff meeting killing the mayor and several other top officials.