At least 16 people have been killed in a suicide bomb attack in the town of Beledwayne, southeastern Somalia. Among those killed were both civilian and police officers.

The explosion of the bomb found in a truck caused significant damage to surrounding commercial buildings and schools, meaning the death toll could rise. According to police, the number of injured is at least 30.

The target of the attack in the capital of the Hiran region is not yet known. A toll collection point for truck drivers can be found nearby.

So far, no one has claimed responsibility for the attack. In the past, however, such attacks have been carried out by the jihadist group al-Shabab.

27 dead, more than 50 injured in attacks in Somalia

The al-Shabaab group has controlled parts of the East African country for years, especially in the south, where the militia exercises control over vast territories.

suicide bombing

Somalia

Casualties and injured