Press Release
Mogadishu 13th May 2014 – The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia (SRCC), Ambassador Mahamat Saleh Annadifhas strongly condemned yesterday’s suicide attack in Baidoa.
A Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) went off early yesterday afternoon in the busy business district outside Dahabshiil Bank. The blast killed 19 innocent victims and destroyed valuable property. Within minutes of the blast, AMISOM forces responded to provide emergency medical care and extinguished the ensuing inferno from the damaged vehicles.
“We stand firmly alongside the Somali people and the Federal Government of Somalia at this difficult time. This was a cowardly attack, which highlights the vicious nature of the enemy who continues to target innocent civilians with an aim to curtail the peace process,” said Ambassador Annadif.
Ambassador Annadif reiterated AMISOM’s commitment to assist those affected by the blast. AMISOM medical staff are currently treating the wounded at the Bay Regional Hospital.
“We will not be cowed by these attacks. The Somali people have overwhelmingly decided to firmly peg their future on the path of peace,” said Ambassador Annadif, adding that the display of unity during this difficult time was a strong message of determination by the residents.
Baidoa, a rich agricultural city in northwestern Somalia, has enjoyed relative calm in the recent past. Somali National Army forces supported by AMISOM have liberated strategic towns in the region including Huddur and Wajid. The efforts for the liberation of the people of Somalia from the terrorists (i.e. Al-Shabaab) are irreversible.
