The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has strongly condemned the terrorist attack at the highly patronized Pearl Hotel in Mogadishu on Friday evening.
In a statement, AU said the attack on innocent civilians was yet another proof that Al-Shabab is hell-bent on destabilising Somalia with absolutely no respect for human lives.
“The targeting of civilians going about their lives is an act of cowardice and against principles of International Humanitarian Law,” said the SRCC and Head of ATMIS, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef.
ATMIS has extended its deepest condolences to the families of those killed and wishes others injured in the heinous attack a speedy recovery.
“ATMIS family also commends Somali Security Forces for their quick response in bringing the situation under control to save more precious lives. We remain resolute in the fight against terrorism to ensure a secure and stable country that progresses on socio-economic development,” said Souef.
In a separate statement, Saudi Arabia has expressed its sincere condolences to Somalia following the munitions explosion south of Mogadishu, which caused the death and injury of a number of civilians.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed Saudi Arabia’s solidarity with Somalia, wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
