A significant explosion struck a checkpoint near Mogadishu's National Theatre on Thursday, resulting in unspecified casualties, according to a security official and eyewitnesses.
A security official stated that the blast occurred at a checkpoint close to the National Theatre, though details remain unclear, with casualties reported. "We don't have the full details, but there are casualties," the official said.
A witness described the explosion as a car bomb, noting the intense smoke and dust that engulfed the area. "The blast was extremely powerful, and we could see the smoke and dust overwhelming the whole area," said Ibrahim Farey.
Another witness, Aisha Hassan, reported that multiple vehicles were destroyed and nearby buildings sustained damage. Ambulances were seen rushing to the scene, but access to the area remained restricted. "It is impossible to get close to the area now," she added.
The blast occurred along a road near the presidential palace, a hub for restaurants and tea shops. This follows an earlier attack in March that left at least 20 people dead after a 24-hour clash between Al-Shabaab militants and security forces.
