MOGADISHU, July 2 (Xinhua) -- The Somali government on Monday condemned a mortar attack on Sunday in Mogadishu that reportedly left at least five people dead and more than ten others injured.
The Ministry of Information also lauded quick response by the Somali security forces and the African Union Mission (AMISOM) troops for their swift response to the incident in Wadajir district.
"The Federal Government of Somalia reiterates that acts of terrorism will not deter Somalia from its path of peace and state building, and emphasizes its commitment to building a safe and prosperous future for the Somali people," the ministry said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.
"The Federal Government of Somalia expresses its condolences to the families of those victims who lost their lives and wishes the injured speedy recovery," the ministry added.
Suspected al-Shabab militants fired three rounds of mortar shells targeting the heavily guarded airport but struck a residential neighborhood leaving five family members dead.
Witnesses said the mortar shells targeted the AMISOM military command camp in Halane which is located near the airport but the shells did not land in the compound.
"The Federal Government of Somalia expresses regret that this evil and cowardly attack was perpetrated on Somalia's Independence Day, a day of celebration for our nation and people," said the ministry.
No group claimed responsibility for the attack but extremist group al-Shabab often targets high-profile areas of the capital.
