Mar 20(Jowhar)A roadside bomb explosion near the KM4 junction in Mogadishu targeted Somali liberal and human rights activist Hamza Abdulkadir Sadik on Thursday night. The attack, confirmed by the Somali Police, occurred on the road leading to Aden Adde International Airport.
According to police reports, the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) planted on Hamza’s vehicle. Both he and his driver survived the blast, though Hamza sustained injuries to his face and hand. Emergency responders secured the area and provided immediate medical assistance before transporting him to a hospital in Mogadishu for further treatment.
Authorities have attributed the attack to Al-Shabaab, a militant group known for targeting government officials, civil society members, and international organisations operating in Somalia. The group has been responsible for numerous attacks against individuals advocating for human rights and democratic governance in the region.
The Somali government has condemned the attack, reiterating its commitment to protecting activists and civil society leaders who play a vital role in the country’s development.
Security measures have since been heightened around key locations in Mogadishu to prevent further attacks.
The incident highlights the ongoing security threats faced by human rights defenders in Somalia, where activists continue to be at risk of targeted violence.
Local and international organisations have called for increased security provisions to safeguard those advocating for human rights and democratic freedoms in the country.
