Since time immemorial, Somalia has been a violence-prone state. Occasionally, civil wars, insurgencies by militia attacks, and ethnic differences contribute to its unpeaceful state. The East African state is among the world’s poorest countries, with a deteriorated and unstable economy. Recently an unfortunate incident that left many harmed transpired at the capital. It was alleged that the Al-Shabaab militia, who are active in the state, plotted the attack.
The Bombing
On Friday evening, a suicide car bomb exploded outside a restaurant near a port. Sources reported that the alleged bomber had parked the car for some time outside the Luul Yemeni restaurant before blowing it up. At the time of the incident, many were gathered in the building having the time of their life. The exceptionally terrific explosion destroyed a significant amount of property and caused civilian casualties.
The unprecedented blast led to a commotion in the restaurant as many sought safety. According to emergency agencies, about ten people succumbed while thirty sustained injuries. This is yet another restaurant explosion that happened in the country. Last year, a similar incident occurred, leading to the death of five and many injured.
Reactions to the Bombing
Residents in the state were concerned upon hearing about the news. Unfortunately, the country’s militia attacks have been resurgent, making people live in fear. On several occasions, hundreds of Somalis migrate from their land to the neighboring states, searching for greener pastures. Kenya happens to be among the refuge states harboring Somali migrants.
Kenya sent several of its defense forces amid President Kibaki’s regime, hoping to curb the insurgencies. However, it appears the militias are well networked, as bringing them down is a hell of a task. At the beginning of the KDF operation in Somalia, Kenya saw a rise in militia attacks, with the Somali terrorists bringing down one of its malls.
Meanwhile, ten years ago, the militants were driven out of Mogadishu by government soldiers who around 20000 UN peacemakers backed. Nevertheless, that marked the onset of a new territory. The militia went and dominated the rural regions of the state. Today, they have established territories, and it is from there that they plan their attacks.
While some locals from the rural have fled, others have been recruited to join the insurgent groups. These groups know best to kill, destroy, and torture, as they believe in resilience. Despite the surging attacks, Somalia has been struggling to establish its regime with the United Nations’ help. Since 1991, Somalia had only had a limited central government.
Somalia and many countries across the globe have been putting in collective responsibilities towards ending jihadist attacks. Forces from different countries have come together and initiated various measures to curb the insurgencies. The latter is the crucial reason behind the deteriorating economy in Africa. Victims of the uprisings have been forced to depend on humanitarian aid for survival.
Although Somalia might be on the verge of militia control, there is hope that the anti-terrorism measures will reign in the future. And that normalcy will kick in.
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