UN calls for long-term support for Somalia amid militant attacks

Mogadishu: Amid increasing al-Shabab militant attacks in Somalia, the United Nations senior envoy James Swan has called for long-term support for the country.

The UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Somalia said the UN stands in solidarity with all Somali victims and survivors of terrorism as they heal from their trauma, along with their families and communities. He added that the voices of survivors must be heard and acknowledged and their rights upheld.

In the official statement issued on the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, he noted that the weekend's terrorist violence in Mogadishu is a stark reminder of just how vital the support is.

The Somali security forces recently ended a 30-hour siege at Hayat Hotel which was attacked by al-Shabab militants. Over 10 people were killed and many others including security officers were injured in the attack.

According to a police officer, the specialised security forces neutralised the attackers who had detonated explosives and blasted their way inside the popular hotel, a hangout for civilians, government officials, and lawmakers, reported Xinhua news agency.

The residents, however, claimed they could hear gunfire inside the building on Sunday morning.

The security forces used heavy weapons and explosives to kill all the attackers. The scene has been quiet for some time now and there is now gunfire coming from the hotel. The siege has ended, said the official.