Somalia Suicide Attack: Dozens Killed In Suicide Attack On Military Academy In Mogadishu

According to military sources, a suicide bomber killed at least 30 troops and injured scores more at a military academy in the Somali capital of Mogadishu on Monday. 

The suicide bomber blew himself up while the soldiers were being numbered in line, according to a military officer.

Militants claim that the bomber injured 124 people in addition to killing 73 soldiers. 

A military operation launched by government forces and affiliated militias last year pushed the al Qaeda-linked outfit out of large parts of southern Somalia, but the militants have continued to launch lethal attacks. 

Al Qaeda fighters have stepped up their attacks in recent days as the military operation against them has paused while the army prepares a second phase of the offensive.

 Late in May, at least 54 Ugandan African peacekeepers were killed by Qaeda-backed militants in the south of Mogadishu. 

They surrounded Baidoa, one of the country's largest cities, for more than two weeks. 

They have also carried out a number of raids throughout Mogadishu this month. 

An army official who chose to remain unnamed, remarked, "We have confirmed 30 dead and 73 others injured from the blast at the military training camp." 

A second military source verified the same fatality toll.

Captain Ali, who knew some of the deceased, said they were from Lower Shabelle and had come to the city for training. 

He claimed to be aware of ten deaths to date, according to Reuters. 

The casualty figures provided by the organization are frequently far higher than those provided by the government.