Islamic militants Al-Shabaab visited As-Asey Hotel in Kismayo two days before launching one of the deadliest attacks in the town which was liberated by KDF seven years ago, security sources have revealed.
At least 26 people were killed on Friday night with the militants taking over Kismayo for several hours before KDF and allied forces managed to flush them out.
Investigations by Voice of America indicate that the militants did survey the hotel for two days before launching the attack. They used suicide bomber to carry the attack.
"Kismayo attackers visited the hotel 2 days prior to attack according to a security source. Attack was carried out by a suicide bomber who was driving a “Surf” car, and 3 suicide infantry; operation likely planned for 2 months; attackers were identified, per source," Harun Maruf said.
Planning and International Cooperation minister Aw Hirsi confirmed that the attack left three Kenyans dead. The total number of foreigners killer was ten.
"2 Americans, 1 British, 1 Canadian, 3 Kenyans and 3 Tanzanian citizens* are among the dead in the As-Asey terrorist attack. *Some of these are dual citizens. #KismayoTerrorAttack," he said on Twitter.
Among those who were killed was Integration TV host Hodan Nalayeh, who was mourned by several leaders in Kenya. Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan was disappointed with her demise.
"Heartbreaking news from Kismayo. Absolutely gutted to hear the killing of Hodan Naleyh and her husband Farid & many other innocent ppl. Strongly condemn these acts of terror. We must defeat hatred and violence with unity, love, kindness and compassion," he wrote.
The reports comes amidst claims that similar security lapses were witnessed during Garissa University attack that saw over 148 students killed in 2015.