By Nuh Mohamed - Reporter
Mogadishu (Dawan) – Somalia has condemned the bombing of a cafe in central Damascus, Syria, that killed at least nine people and injuring 20 others.
In a statement, Somalia's Foreign Affairs Ministry described the incident as a terrorist attack targeting civilians and extended its condolences to the government and people of Syria, particularly the families of those killed.
"The Federal Republic of Somalia stands in full solidarity with the Syrian Arab Republic during this difficult time and reaffirms its support for the security, stability and safety of the Syrian people," the ministry said. It also wished those injured a swift recovery.
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According to Syria's Ministry of Health and state media, the explosion occurred at about 3:24pm local time on Thursday inside a cafe on Al-Nasser Street in the Al-Marjah district, near the Palace of Justice in central Damascus.
Syrian state television reported that the blast was caused by an explosive device. Images from the scene showed extensive damage inside the cafe and bloodstains across the floor.
Authorities have not identified those responsible for the attack. However, Syrian officials said investigations are continuing as security agencies pursue suspected sleeper cells believed to be attempting to undermine the country's stability.