Ten Somali journalists were wounded on April 4 when a female suicide bomber blew herself up at a ceremony for the Somali National Television.
The attack that killed at least 10 people and injured dozens was later claimed by Islamic militants al-Shabaab. A witness who was in the theatre said “the blast happened as musicians were singing and spectators were clapping for them”.
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) said they are “dismayed” by the attack, calling it “barbaric”, and strongly condemn the incident. The president of the organisation was amongst the victims.
The following is the list of journalists were were wounded in the blast:
- Saleiban Sheik Ismail , NUSOJ Supreme Council 2nd Vice President. He received head injuries. He was hospitalised at Daru-Shifa Hospital where he is receiving treatment.
- Ahmed Ali Kahiye, reporter for the Kulmiye News Network (KNN) Radio. He was rushed to Madina hospital after a flying shrapnel hit his left kidney.
- Deeqo Mohamed Ahmed, reporter for Somali National Television, is in critical condition. She was severely wounded at the back, right leg and flames burnt over her mouth and neck and suffered internal bleeding.
- Hamdi Muhumad Hassan, reporter for Somali Chanel, received head injuries.
- Sa’id Warsame Shuuriyaako from the Shabelle Media Network was wounded by flying sharpnels and flames.
- Mohamed Shariif from Radio Bar-Kulan received light wounds at the left hand and was discharged from the hospital.
- Ayaan Abdulle Guure, reporter for S24 Television, received leg injuries.
- Mikail Hassan Ali, editor and Technician for the Somali National TV, light injuries.
- Abdulkadir Mohamed Hassan (Timoos) had wounds on his shoulders.
- Hassan Salah, also known as Hassan Adde , cameraman for the Somali National TV, received ankle injuries.
Somalia’s Ministry of Information, Posts and Telecommunication has reported two top sport officials died in the attacks – the president of Somalia’s national football federation and the president of the Somali Olympic committee.
The blast ends all hopes that Somalia had been entertaining of going back to normal after years of civil war and a constant terrorist threat.
Somali’s prime minister said he will energise the government to eliminate the terrorists out of the country.
