Large Fire at Elasha Biyaha Market Linked to Suspected Al-Shabaab Attack

Mogadishu, (IDNE, News desk) — A large fire broke out at a market in Elasha Biyaha, on the outskirts of Mogadishu, late Saturday evening, reportedly caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) believed to have been planted by Al-Shabaab militants, local journalists and security sources said.

The blaze erupted at a business center within the market, raising concerns among local authorities and residents. According to a security source, while no casualties have been reported, the fire caused significant property damage. The incident has sparked fears of further attacks, as Al-Shabaab militants have been known to target businesses that install security measures, including CCTV cameras.

Business owners in the area had recently agreed to install surveillance cameras in response to increasing security threats. Al-Shabaab, a militant group linked to al-Qaeda has a history of targeting businesses with explosives after they implement security measures, particularly those involving surveillance technology.

The preliminary reports suggesting the involvement of Al-Shabaab, though no group has yet claimed responsibility.

Elasha Biyaha located just outside the capital, has experienced several attacks in the past, attributed to the ongoing insurgency by Al-Shabaab. The militant group has doubled its activities in recent months, targeting both civilians and security personnel.

The federal government has not yet commented on the incident. However, the threat posed by Al-Shabaab remains significant, as the group continues to launch attacks in Mogadishu, particularly in areas where security measures have been bolstered.