MOGADISHU, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of Somalis, including senior government officials, staged on Monday a peaceful demonstration in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, denouncing the al-Shabab extremist group following a deadly hotel attack last Friday which killed 37 people.
Gathering at the Lido Beach View where the attack occurred, demonstrators carried anti-al-Shabab placards condemning the group's atrocities.
They chanted defiant slogans such as "We don't want al-Shabab, we don't like killers, and Mogadishu people are not afraid of al-Shabab," and showed solidarity with the killed and 247 others wounded in the assault.
Among the demonstrators were survivors, ministers, and officials who vowed not to be intimidated by terrorism and called on Somalis to unite and collaborate with security agencies to combat terrorism.
"We came here at Lido Beach to show solidarity with victims of the hotel attack on Friday and to let our enemy (al-Shabab) know that we will not be intimidated," said Hassan Abdi, a protester.
The attack began at 10:00 p.m. (1900 GMT) on Aug. 2 when a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device at the entrance of the Lido Beach View.
Following the initial explosion, five additional attackers stormed the area, where many residents were engaged in activities such as dining, swimming, and walking.
Police spokesman Aden said that security forces swiftly engaged and eliminated the attackers on-site, capturing one driving a car laden with explosives. One soldier was killed and another injured during the operation.
The al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack, which, they said, killed 54 people.
Lido Beach, a popular hangout spot, features picturesque beach hotels and restaurants that attract many Somalis who cherish time with loved ones amidst the scenic coastline.
Militants have in the past carried out attacks on several beachside restaurants along Lido Beach. A recent attack last year claimed the lives of more than 10 individuals.
Analysts say the assaults on Mogadishu's beachfront underscore the terrorist network's determination to reassert its authority in the Somali capital after being weakened by the African Union troops. ■
