Jihadist group al-Shabaab began an insurgency in 2006, trying to overthrow the internationally backed Somali government and impose a severe form of Sharia law.[3] The Islamist group have carried out many attacks in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, targeting civilian buildings including hotels and restaurants as well as military and political targets.[3]
Attack
On the night of 9–10 June 2023, al-Shabaab attacked the popular, upmarket Pearl Beach hotel and restaurant in Mogadishu's Lido Beach.[3] Seven gunmen attacked its restaurant after detonating a bomb there.[3] They killed at least six civilians and three members of the security forces.[3] Eighty four civilians were rescued following a siege.[4] All the attackers were shot dead by the security forces.[3]