At least seven people, including civilians, were killed on Thursday when a man detonated explosives near a police academy in Mogadishu, as reported by police and eyewitnesses.
The militant group Al-Shabaab, which has carried out numerous attacks in Mogadishu and other regions of the country, claimed responsibility for the bombing in a statement.
According to police officials, the suicide bomber approached a group of individuals enjoying tea under the shade of trees before detonating the explosive device at approximately 3:30 PM local time (12:30 PM GMT).
Rescue services responded promptly to the scene.
“There were bodies and injured people scattered everywhere beneath the trees,” said witness Ahmed Adan in an interview with AFP.
“This is horrifying; the explosion occurred while people were peacefully enjoying their tea,” added another witness, Mohamed Salad.
Reports indicate that a prominent Somali poet may have been among the victims.
In August, at least 37 people lost their lives in a terrorist attack on a popular beach in the capital, which was followed by public protests against the militants.
