Governor killed in suicide attack in Puntland State

 The governor of Nugal region Abdisalam Hassan Hersi [Gu’jir] has succumbed to his serious wounds following a suicide explosion at a police station on Sunday evening.

Also badly wounded were a soldier and former regional police commander Farah Galangoli. 

Witnesses said a man wearing a suicide vest detonated himself near the car carrying the officials. 

Doctors are currently working around the clock to save the lives of those wounded in the attack, reports indicate. 

Al-Shabaab has immediately taken responsibility for the attack. The Somalia-based Al-Qaida associated group has often targeted security officials, political leaders, and even civilians. 

The President of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo has condoled the death of Nugal governor, Abdisalam Hassan Hersi on Monday.

The head of state who condemned the heinous attack held a telephone conversation with Puntland leader, Saed Abdullahi Deni.

A statement from Villa Somalia said President Farmajo sent his heartfelt condolences to the family and people of the state via regional leader Saed Abdullahi Deni.

The President also wished quick recovery to those affected by the blast that killed the Nugal governor.

The late governor was about fifty years old. He was a member of SSDF whose officials founded Puntland in 1988. He was the Mayor of Garowe in 2004 and held his position since 2018.