Death toll rises to 35 after Al Shabaab car bomb attack in Hiiraan region

According to regional officials, the death toll rose to 35 following the twin car explosions in Mahas district of Hiiraan region on Wednesday which later Alshabab claimed its responsibility.

Government officials said the death toll is gradually increasing following Wednesday’s twin car bombs in Mahas district of Hiiraan region. They said at least 35 people were confirmed dead and more injured in the attack.

Initial reports revealed eight members of those killed in the attack belonged to the same family. Alshabab said it carried out the attack, making it one of the latest attacks by the group since government forces and allied clan militias last year began pushing the Al Shabaab members out of territory they had long held.

Al Shabaab has been waging an insurgency against Somalia’s government since 2007. It was pushed out of Hiraan, the region where Mahas is located, last year by government forces and allied clan militias known as macawisley.

The soldiers and militiamen have received support from United States and African Union troops during their offensive.