By Goth Mohamed Goth
MOGADISHU – A loud explosion was reported late last night in the vicinity of the Somali Sudanese Hospital in the capital, Hodan district triggering immediate panic among residents and conflicting accounts over whether the incident had resulted in any loss of life. While initial rumours and unverified social media posts suggested the blast had struck a nearby security checkpoint, Somali police have officially denied any fatalities, injuries, or significant material damage.
Official Police Statement
In a formal statement released this evening, police authorities confirmed that an explosive device had indeed been placed close to the Somali Sudanese Hospital area—a heavily trafficked part of Mogadishu. However, they swiftly moved to dispel earlier alarm, emphasizing that the device did not cause any casualties or major structural harm.
“Security forces responded promptly, and our preliminary investigations show that no one was killed or wounded,” a police spokesman said. “We call on citizens and journalists to avoid spreading unverified information.” Crucially, no group has claimed responsibility, and officials have not named any suspected perpetrators, stating that the investigation remains open.
Opposition Criticism
The incident has provided opposition figures with fresh ammunition to criticise the federal government’s security record. Speaking tonight, opposition leaders argued that even a non-lethal blast near a key medical facility exposes serious intelligence and protection gaps. They accused the government of downplaying threats, pointing to earlier media reports that had initially suggested a fatal attack at a checkpoint—reports which police later rejected.
For now, security forces have cordoned off the area around the Somali Sudanese Hospital as a precautionary measure. No injuries have been reported, no suspects have been named, and the investigation continues. Residents have been advised to remain calm and report any suspicious activity, even as the city awaits clarity on who—if anyone—was behind the device
