Two huge VBIED explosions on Friday evening hit the Somali capital Mogadishu killing at least 18 people and injuring 20, medical sources said.
The first explosion occurred at the first checkpoint to the Presidential residence the Villa Somalia allowing the attackers to access an area close to the well-protected residence.
One presidential guard identified as Bishaar was killed in the the attack.
A source told Radio Dalsan that the assailants were repulsed and a firefight ensued.
A second explosion occurred near the newly opened upmarket Doorbin hotel and the Somalia Intelligence agency NISA headquarters.
On Thursday Somalia’s Internal Security Minister issued an alert following an intel that an explosive-laden vehicle was within the capital.
Alshabaab claimed responsibility for the attack through affiliate websites. .
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