Summary:

• A wave of explosions rocked Mogadishu’s Bakaro market on Tuesday, leaving at least 10 people dead, according to eyewitnesses at the scene.

A wave of explosions rocked Mogadishu’s Bakaro market on Tuesday, leaving at least 10 people dead, according to eyewitnesses at the scene.

Tensions had been simmering prior to the blasts, as the business community protested against what they perceived as unjust tax hikes.

The situation escalated when police officers from the Banadir Regional Administration forcibly shuttered shops and stores in the area.

“We heard the explosions and we fled to the shelter. After a few minutes, we saw dead bodies on the ground. 10 dead and 15 others injured,” recounted Ahmed Mohamed, an eyewitness.

Ambulances raced to the scene, though some residents reported that injured individuals were transported in minibuses and taxis due to the urgency of the situation.

Authorities remained silent on the attack, leaving many questions unanswered.

Eyewitnesses reported that the blasts were caused by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted in the area. However, conflicting accounts suggest that mortar rounds may have also been fired into the market.

Following the tragic incident, both Bakaro and Hamarweyne, Mogadishu’s primary markets, ground to a halt as businesses closed their doors and scenes of bloodshed marred the once bustling streets.