MOGADISHU, Somalia, February 21, 2014 – A radio journalist was seriously wounded today after Al-shabaab fighters wearing suicide vests and carrying guns and grenades attacked Villa Somalia (the presidential palace) today.

Journalist Ahmed Said Ahmed of Radio Kulmiye was wounded at the right side of the chest and right shoulder in this attack, which also called the life of senior government officials including Permanent Secretary of the Office of Prime Minister Mohamud Hersi. Ahmed, who was burned by the blast at both legs, was admitted to Daru Shifa hospital, and he is in a critical condition, according to doctors.

The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) was informed that Ahmed Said Ahmed was on assignment by his radio station to report on events in Villa Somalia at the time of deadly attack.

“We condemn this senseless attack which caused considerable loss of life. We urge journalists in the field and media houses behind them to exercise great caution for the safety” said Omar Faruk Osman, NUSOJ Secretary General. “We join Ahmed’s family and colleagues at Radio Kulmiye in wishing him a quick and full recovery”.

Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility of the attack. They used multiple car bombings and heavy machine guns. The heavily guarded presidential palace is the residence and offices of the president, prime minister and speaker of parliament.

SOURCE: National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ)