Somalia: Bomb explosions result in multiple casualties in Beledweyne, Hiiraan Region, late March 23

Event

Two simultaneous bomb explosions have resulted in multiple casualties in Beledweyne, capital of Hiiraan Region, late March 23. The blasts targeted the Lama Galaay polling station and left at least one member of parliament dead and several others wounded. Officials will likely update the casualty figures in the coming hours. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack; however, the Al-Shabaab militant group is the most likely perpetrator. Beledweyne is located around 340 km (211 miles) north of Mogadishu.

Heightened security measures are likely near the incident site in the coming hours. Security force deployments could result in localized ground travel delays.

Advice

Avoid the incident site. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.