On 2 August 2024, Al-Shabaab attacked Lido Beach in Somalia's capital Mogadishu. The attack started with a suicide bombing, followed by a mass shooting inside a hotel.[5]Explosions and gunfire shook a hotel near the beach, with restaurants and other hotels in the area also being targeted. A suicide bomber blew themselves up near the Beach View Hotel, leading to the deaths of at least 50 people and injuries to hundreds of others.[6]
It was the deadliest attack in the Horn of Africa since twin car bombs detonated near a busy market intersection in October 2022, killing at least 121 people and wounding 350 others.[7][8]
Lido Beach is a common spot to visit in Mogadishu, especially busy on Friday nights when Somalis gather to enjoy their weekend. The area has been targeted by Al-Shabaab militants before. The most recent attack before this one was in June 2023, when nine people were killed.[10]
Beach View Hotel, a popular place on Lido Beach in Mogadishu. It is often visited by government officials and civilians. Al-Shabaab attacks locations like this to cause fear and instability, get attention for their cause, and show that they can attack even well-protected hotels and restaurants.[11][12]
Attack
The attack started when a suicide bomber exploded at the entrance of the Beach View Hotel, Other attackers tried to enter the hotel and also shot and killed people on the beach. Security forces engaged in a shootout, reportedly killing some militants.[13][14]
Aftermath
Security forces safely deactivated a vehicle that was full of explosives.[15][16][6] One of those killed was a soldier. The suicide bomber and the five gunmen were killed,[17] while a seventh attacker, an attempted suicide car bomber, was arrested.[2]
A protest was held at the site of the attack on 5 August, with demonstrators calling for stronger security measures.[18]
The attack on Lido Beach was a horrific and cowardly act of terrorism. My thoughts are with the victims and their families following this unforgivable tragedy.
The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Somalia in the fight against terrorism.
