Several people have been killed after a car bomb exploded outside a popular café in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, on Sunday night. The bomb detonated at 22:28 local time as patrons at Top Coffee were watching the Euro 2024 football final between Spain and England.
Initial reports from police confirmed at least five deaths and 20 injuries. However, security sources later said that the death toll had risen to nine. The jihadist group al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos and terror. “We heard a loud, horrifying explosion during the first half of the game. Everyone had to figure out how to save themselves. I saw people in danger, injured people screaming for help, and others confused – it was terrifying,” survivor Mohamed Muse said.
The explosion also destroyed several cars and damaged nearby buildings. Al-Shabab, affiliated with al-Qaeda, stated the attack targeted a location frequented by security and government workers at night. The café is situated near Villa Somalia, the official presidential residence.
For the past 17 years, al-Shabab has carried out numerous bombings in Mogadishu and other parts of Somalia. However, there had been a recent lull in attacks due to a continuing offensive by Somali security forces against the group, which still controls large parts of the country.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on:
