Explosions Rock Hiiraan, Damage Buulo-Burde Bridge

On 19 October 2022, Somali Dispatch reported that a large explosion hit Buulo-Burde District in Hiran Region, causing deaths and injuries and destroying parts of a bridge over the Shabelle River. The report said some parts of the bridge were destroyed, making it difficult for vehicles to use.

Somali Dispatch attributed the explosion to Al Shabaab, saying it was carried out with a vehicle filled with explosive materials. However, the report did not say Al Shabaab officially claimed responsibility.

Security forces and officials from Buulo-Burde district reportedly reached the site and were assessing and investigating, according to Somali Dispatch. The report did not specify the number of deaths or injuries.

Somali Dispatch also reported other recent explosions in Jalalaqsi district of Hiran region. One explosion was caused by a vehicle filled with explosives that targeted a centre belonging to ATMIS forces from Djibouti, according to reports from that district. The report did not list casualties or damage from the Jalalaqsi attack.

The current condition of the bridge is unknown. Somali Dispatch's 2022 report did not say whether the bridge was later repaired or rebuilt, and no subsequent reports are available. The outcome of the investigation by security forces and officials has not been published.